Emotional

Part of speech: adjective

Pronunciation: /ɪˈməʊʃənəl/

Definitions

1. Pertaining to feelings, especially strong ones like joy or sorrow | Relating to the affective states that can influence behavior and thought processes | Connected to personal responses that evoke significant feelings or reactions
2. Relating to feelings and sentiments that profoundly influence one's state of mind | Connected to the psychological responses that encompass a range of human feelings | Involving passionate feelings that can significantly impact behavior and mental processes
3. Connected to the wide spectrum of human feelings that shape our experiences | Involving the inner states that provoke significant reactions and influence actions | Pertaining to the intense feelings that can alter perceptions and decision-making

Etymology: The term "emotional" finds its roots in the late 14th century, deriving from the Middle English word "emocioun," which meant "a stirring up, commotion, or agitation." This Middle English term itself came from the Old French "émotion," which had similar meanings of movement or disturbance. The evolution of this word highlights the dynamic interplay between feelings and physical sensations, as it originally referred to a state of agitation or excitement, both mental and physical. Tracing further back, the Old French "émotion" stems from the Latin "emotio," a noun that comes from the verb "emovere," meaning "to move out" or "to stir up." The prefix "e-" indicates movement away from, while "movere" means "to move." Thus, the Latin roots reflect the original conception of feelings as forces that move individuals emotionally, stirring them from a state of calm to one of engagement or turmoil. By the 19th century, the meaning of the word began to shift more distinctly toward the realm of feelings and sentiments, losing much of its earlier association with physical disturbance. In its modern usage, "emotional" emphasizes feelings, moods, and affections, often highlighting the depth of human experience. This shift illustrates how language adapts and transforms, reflecting changes in societal focus—from a broad sense of agitation to a more specific exploration of inner life and psychological states. As the concept of emotions evolved, so too did the contexts in which this term was employed. It became a central descriptor in discussions around psychology, art, and literature, signifying a profound connection to the human condition. Today, "emotional" encompasses a wide spectrum of feelings, from joy to sorrow, and is often used to convey the intensity of one's experiences, making it a vital part of expressive language.

Synonyms: sensitive, passionate

Antonyms: stoic, unemotional