cloy
UK: klɔɪ | US: klɔɪ
vt. to disgust or sicken (someone) with an excess of sweetness, richness, or sentiment
vi. to become wearisome or distasteful through excess
The word "cloy" originates from the Middle English acloyen, meaning "to clog or choke," derived from Old French enclouer (to drive a nail into, obstruct). This traces further back to Latin clavus (nail), metaphorically implying something so excessive it becomes oppressive—like a nail hammered in too far. Over time, "cloy" narrowed to describe sensory overload, especially from sweetness or sentimentality.
The overly sweet dessert began to cloy after a few bites.
His sentimental speeches cloyed the audience, who craved substance.
Too much perfume can cloy the senses.
The film’s romantic subplot cloyed rather than charmed.
Honeyed words may cloy if they lack sincerity.