Definition of cloy

The word "cloy" has an interesting etymology. It originated in the 14th century from the Old French word "cloier," which meant "to satiate" or "to glut." This Old French term is derived from the Latin word "culicare," meaning "to glut" or "to make full." Initially, the word "cloy" carried a positive connotation, meaning to satisfy one's hunger or desires fully. Over time, its meaning shifted to convey a negative sense of being overpowered or repelled by something that was initially pleasing. In the 16th century, the word "cloy" began to be used to describe a sense of excessive sweetness or richness that became unpleasant. Today, the word "cloy" is often used to describe something that is too rich, sugary, or overpowering, and has lost its original positive connotation.