English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology
FreeDict.com
adj C1 Advanced Uncommon

sentimental

sehn-tee-MEHNTL

Sentimental (adj) means relating to or triggering tender emotions, especially nostalgia or affection. Example: “The necklace has sentimental value; it belonged to my grandmother.”

adj
1
Relating to or triggering tender emotions, especially nostalgia or affection.
"The necklace has sentimental value; it belonged to my grandmother."
"The film ends on a rather sentimental note."

How to use sentimental

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishEmotionally touching, often in a nostalgic or overly tender way.

Common pairings
sentimental value sentimental journey get sentimental

Word forms

more sentimental comparative, most sentimental superlative

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.
Test yourself on “sentimental” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The necklace has _____ value; it belonged to my grandmother.

Etymology

From sentiment + the adjective-forming suffix -al.

Antonyms

unsentimental

Rhymes for sentimental

See all rhymes for sentimental →

Frequently asked questions

What does “sentimental” mean?

The word “sentimental” means relating to or triggering tender emotions, especially nostalgia or affection. In plain terms, emotionally touching, often in a nostalgic or overly tender way.

How do you pronounce “sentimental”?

“Sentimental” is pronounced sehn-tee-MEHNTL (/ˌsɛntiˈmɛntl̩/ in IPA).

How do you use “sentimental” in a sentence?

Here is “sentimental” used in a sentence: “The necklace has sentimental value; it belonged to my grandmother.”

What is the opposite of “sentimental”?

The opposite of “sentimental” — its antonyms — is unsentimental.

What part of speech is “sentimental”?

“Sentimental” is an adjective.

Is “sentimental” a common word?

“Sentimental” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C1 level.

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial