gushy
/ˈɡʌʃ.i/ (bre, ipa) · /ˈɡʌʃ.i/ (ame, ipa) · /ˈgə-shē/ (ame, mw)
gushy — adjective
- gushypositive
- gushiercomparative
- gushiestsuperlative
1. describing speech or writing that expresses praise or admiration in a way that f
describing speech or writing that expresses praise or admiration in a way that feels too emotional and therefore not completely sincere.
The maid of honor gave such a gushy wedding toast that several guests exchanged awkward glances.
gushy + wedding toast (typical noun collocation)
A film critic described the director's award speech as gushy and completely over-the-top.
The Valentine's card from her new boyfriend was so gushy that it made her uneasy.
Online restaurant reviews are often so gushy that regular readers find them hard to believe.
The newspaper editor warned the travel writer to avoid gushy language in her columns.
- effusive
more formal, less negative — can be neutral or positive
- sentimental
focuses on tender feelings rather than praise; broader meaning
- over-the-top
informal, wider scope — not limited to emotional expression
- syrupy
suggests fake or exaggerated sweetness in a more critical way
- understated
deliberately low-key and restrained
- reserved
holding back emotion; calm and controlled