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Definition of cloying

cloying

/ˈklɔɪ.ɪŋ/
cloy · ing
Adverb:cloyingly
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cloying Lexical Profile

cloying Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Excessively sentimental, affectionate, or flattering to the point of being unpleasant or insincere.

Example

"Critics panned the romantic comedy for its predictable plot and cloying sentimentality."

2

Disgusting or sickening to the taste or smell because of an excess of sweetness, richness, or intensity.

Example

"The frosting on the cake was so thick and cloying that I could only eat a single bite."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for cloying

• Nearby Words

clownishly
clownishness
clownlike
cloying
cloyingly
club
club sandwich

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived from the verb 'cloy', a 16th-century shortening of the obsolete verb 'accloy' (to prick with a nail or choke up), from Old French 'enclouer' and ultimately Latin 'clavus' (a nail).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Cloying. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/cloying
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