Tushery - English Definition & Meaning

Definition

Tushery refers to writing, speech, or behavior that is excessively ornate, sentimental, or affectedly archaic. It's often used to describe something that's trying too hard to be elegant or old-fashioned, often in a pretentious way. Think of it as the verbal or written equivalent of wearing a ridiculously oversized, frilly hat to a casual picnic. It lacks genuine emotion or sophistication. It's artificial and over-the-top. Tushery aims for grandeur but often ends up sounding silly or insincere. Imagine a character in a movie using overly flowery language to describe a simple sunset; that's tushery in action.

Etymology

The word "tushery" comes from the writer George Bernard Shaw. Shaw used the term to critique a certain type of historical novel. The term suggests a deliberate attempt to evoke a romanticized past. Its roots imply something artificial and constructed. It's linked to the idea of showing off one's perceived refinement. Shaw's coinage reflects his disdain for superficial displays of elegance. Tushery, therefore, is a relatively modern term with a specific literary origin.

Related Words

Examples

• "The play was full of tushery, with actors reciting lines in exaggerated Shakespearean accents."
• "Her novel suffered from excessive tushery, making it difficult to connect with the characters."
• "The politician's speech was nothing but empty tushery, lacking any real substance."
• "Don't let your writing descend into tushery; keep it simple and genuine."

Encouragement

Don't be afraid to express yourself, but aim for genuine emotion rather than artificial elegance. Remember, sincerity is always more impressive than tushery. Focus on being authentic in your language and writing. 😊

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