effusive
What does "effusive" mean?
"Effusive" describes a person or their manner of expression when they are pouring out emotions—usually positive ones like gratitude, praise, or affection—in an unrestrained or gushing way. Imagine a fountain overflowing; it is a display of feeling that is enthusiastic, sometimes to the point of being excessive or slightly overwhelming. In usage, it often carries a slightly mixed connotation. While it can mean being genuinely warm and heartfelt, it can also imply that someone is being a bit "too much" or demonstrative. It is commonly used in professional or social contexts when describing someone’s greeting, thanks, or praise, such as "an effusive welcome" or "effusive praise."
"effusive" in conversation
After a successful project
The client was so effusive about our presentation!
The client was so effusive about our presentation!
Really? I thought they were just being polite.
Really? I thought they were just being polite.
Used here to describe someone who is being very vocal and enthusiastic with their praise.
Meeting an old friend
She gave me such an effusive welcome at the door.
She gave me such an effusive welcome at the door.
That sounds like her; she never holds back her excitement.
That sounds like her; she never holds back her excitement.
Highlights the demonstrative and unrestrained nature of the friend's greeting.
"effusive" in a sentence
She gave an effusive thank you to the volunteers.
She gave an effusive thank you to the volunteers.
The critic wrote an effusive review of the new film, calling it a masterpiece.
The critic wrote an effusive review of the new film, calling it a masterpiece.
Despite his naturally reserved personality, he became surprisingly effusive after a few glasses of wine.
Despite his naturally reserved personality, he became surprisingly effusive after a few glasses of wine.
