From the English pronunciation of 'Magdalene' — Mary Magdalene's tearful depictions in art gave rise to the adjective for mawkish sentimentality.
Self-pityingly or tearfully sentimental, especially through drunkenness.
An alteration of 'Magdalene,' as in Mary Magdalene, who was traditionally depicted in paintings weeping at the feet of Christ. Her name was pronounced 'maudlin' in English, and her tearful image gave rise to the adjective for excessive weeping. Key roots: Magdalene (Greek: "from Magdala (town in Galilee)").
Being 'maudlin' means crying like Mary Magdalene. Renaissance painters loved depicting her weeping, eyes red, tears streaming. The English pronunciation of 'Magdalene' became 'maudlin,' and her constant crying in artwork became the word for excessive sentimentality. Oxford's Magdalen College and Cambridge's Magdalene College are