Word of the Week: Mollycoddle

Mollycoddle (verb)

Pronounced:

MAH-lee-kah-dul

Definition:

To treat with an excessive or absurd degree of indulgence or attention

Example Sentence:

Though there was no sign of bruises or bleeding, the daycare nurse knew the best way to dry Julie’s tears was to mollycoddle her bumped elbow with a band-aid.

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“Mollycoddle” goes back to the mid-nineteenth century when “coddle” (a word originally used for the delicate process of coddling eggs, and later generalized for any form of pampering) was combined with “molly,” a nickname for Mary. At that time, it was primarily used as a noun — a derogatory term for a wimp. These days, it’s more likely to be used as a verb.

In recent years, mollycoddling as a parental norm has been cause for widespread concern, especially in the realm of higher ed. As Millennials have begun reaching college age, school administrators everywhere are discussing how to deal with “helicopter parents” who hover a little too close.

Where’s the line between loving concern and mollycoddling? It’s difficult to say. Like most things in life, the differentiation varies widely from one child to another.

When in doubt, ask your mollycoddling mother-in-law. She is likely to offer the definitive answer for your child.

Definition and pronunciation taken from Merriam-Webster online dictionary.