Definition

Describing someone or something that is overly delicate or refined in a way that seems insincere or pretentious.

Example

She spoke in a mincing tone that made her seem less genuine.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

Have you seen how mincing she is when she talks?

Yeah, it’s almost like she’s trying too hard to sound refined.

I know, right? It feels a bit fake sometimes.

Totally! I prefer when people just speak naturally.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Mincing → It is formed from "mince" (from Old French *mincier*, meaning to chop or cut into small pieces) and the suffix "-ing" (indicating the action or process). The word "mincing" refers to the action of chopping or cutting something into very small pieces.

Memory Tip

Think of the action of 'chopping' ('mince') something into tiny bits, which is what 'mincing' means.

Visually Confused Words