ful·some
(flsm)
adj.
1. Offensively flattering or insincere. See Synonyms
at unctuous.
2. Offensive to the taste or sensibilities.
3. Usage Problem Copious or
abundant.
[Middle English fulsom, abundant, well-fed,
arousing disgust : ful, full; see full1 +
-som, adj. suff.; see -some1.]
fulsome·ly adv.
fulsome·ness n.
Usage Note: Fulsome is often used to mean
"offensively flattering or insincere." But the word is also used, particularly
in the expression fulsome praise, to mean simply "abundant," without any
implication of excess or insincerity. This usage is etymologically justified but
may invite misunderstandings in contexts in which a deprecatory interpretation
could be made. The sentence I offer you my most fulsome apologies may
raise an eyebrow, where the use of an adjective like full or
abundant would leave no room for doubt as to the sincerity of the
speaker's intentions.
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The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language,
Fourth Edition copyright ©2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009.
Published by Houghton
Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
Todd's greetings are sweet, but never fulsome.
Todd's greetings are sweet, but never fulsome.
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