Definition

Excessively flattering or insincere, often to the point of being offensive or distasteful.

Example

His fulsome praise made everyone uncomfortable because it felt insincere.

Conversation

Did you hear that speech? I thought it was a bit too fulsome for my taste.

Yeah, it felt more like flattery than genuine praise.

Exactly! Sometimes less is more when it comes to compliments.

Definitely, I prefer sincerity over excessive flattery any day.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Fulsome → It originates from the Old English 'full' (meaning full) and 'some' (meaning characterized by or having the quality of). The word 'fulsome' originally described something that is full or abundant, but it has evolved to often mean excessive or insincere in modern usage.

Memory Tip

Think of 'full' to remember that 'fulsome' originally meant something abundant or characterized by fullness.

Visually Confused Words