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z $W¿UVWJODQFHquerulous might seem to be related to query, which
can be used as a noun to mean “a question.” However, querulous
and query actually come from different roots.
ż Query comes from the Latin root spelled quer, quir, or ques
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inquire, inquiry, question, quest, and request.ż Querulous comes from the Latin word queror, meaning “to
complain.” The related words quarrel and quarrelsome are
derived from this same Latin word.z To remember querulous, make a connection to someone you know
who whines constantly. If you can’t think of someone in your
personal life, picture the most famous querulous, complaining
¿JXUHLQ79KLVWRU\ 2VFDUWKH*URXFKIURPSesame Street.Maudlin (adjective)Foolishly, tearfully, and weakly sentimental; overly emotional.z Maudlin is derived from an alteration of the name Mary
Magdalene, one of the most prominent women described in the
New Testament. According to the Bible, she had seven demons cast
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person to whom Jesus appeared after rising from the dead. In the
Middle Ages, Mary Magdalene was often depicted in paintings as
a weeping, repentant sinner. This tearful image led to the current
¿JXUDWLYHPHDQLQJRImaudlin—overly sentimental.z Synonyms and related words for maudlin and sentimental include
schmaltzy, gushing, drippy, and KRNH\.Mawkish (adjective)Excessively and objectionably sentimental.