mushy
UK: ˈmʌʃi | US: ˈmʌʃi
adj. soft and pulpy in texture
adj. overly sentimental or emotionally effusive
The word "mushy" derives from "mush," an early 17th-century term for soft, pulpy food (likely imitative of the sound of chewing or squashing). The suffix "-y" (from Old English "-ig") transforms it into an adjective, describing either physical softness or exaggerated emotional tenderness. The dual meaning reflects how tactile and emotional "softness" often overlap metaphorically.
The overripe peaches turned mushy and unappetizing.
She dislikes mushy romantic movies but enjoys action films.
His speech became mushy when he mentioned his childhood.
The snow grew mushy as the temperature rose.
Avoid cooking the vegetables too long, or they’ll get mushy.