sentiment

UK: ˈsɛntɪmənt | US: ˈsɛntəmənt

Definition

  1. n. 1. A subjective emotional attitude or opinion.

  2. n. 2. A general feeling or tone, especially in art or literature.

  3. n. 3. (Archaic) A thought or reflection influenced by emotion.

Structure
senti <feel>ment <noun suffix>
Etymology

sentiment = senti<feel> + ment<noun suffix>

  • senti (from Latin sentire, meaning "to feel")
  • ment (a noun-forming suffix from Latin -mentum, indicating a result or state)

Etymology Origin:
The word "sentiment" traces back to Latin sentire ("to feel"), which also gave rise to words like "sense" and "sensation." The suffix -ment was added in Old French (sentiment) to denote the state or result of feeling. Over time, the term evolved in English to emphasize emotional attitudes or reflections, particularly in artistic or subjective contexts.

Examples

  1. Her speech resonated with strong patriotic sentiment.

  2. The novel captures the sentimental nostalgia of childhood.

  3. Public sentiment shifted after the controversial decision.

  4. He expressed his sentiments about the issue openly.

  5. The film’s ending left audiences with a bittersweet sentiment.