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fulsomeness

   Also found in: Legal, Encyclopedia, Hutchinson 0.02 sec.
ful·some  (flsm)
adj.
1. Offensively flattering or insincere. See Synonyms at unctuous.
2. Offensive to the taste or sensibilities.
3. Usage Problem Copious or abundant.

[Middle English fulsom, abundant, well-fed, arousing disgust : ful, full; see full1 + -som, adj. suff.; see -some1.]

fulsome·ly adv.
fulsome·ness n.
Usage Note: Fulsome is often used to mean "offensively flattering or insincere." But the word is also used, particularly in the expression fulsome praise, to mean simply "abundant," without any implication of excess or insincerity. This usage is etymologically justified but may invite misunderstandings in contexts in which a deprecatory interpretation could be made. The sentence I offer you my most fulsome apologies may raise an eyebrow, where the use of an adjective like full or abundant would leave no room for doubt as to the sincerity of the speaker's intentions.
ThesaurusLegend:  Synonyms Related Words Antonyms
Noun1.fulsomenessfulsomeness - excessive but superficial compliments given with affected charm
compliment - a remark (or act) expressing praise and admiration
2.fulsomenessfulsomeness - smug self-serving earnestness        
hypocrisy - insincerity by virtue of pretending to have qualities or beliefs that you do not really have


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Perhaps the international art critic who proclaims the diaristic, confessional virtues of Lucien Freud and Francis Bacon should be able to recognize those same qualities in Salle's work - although, to be honest, Salle's confessional mode is way too French, too nasty and acidic (a la Bataille) and totally lacking in the bogus, John Bull fulsomeness of Freud's and Bacon's angst.
 
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