English Reference
noun

sentiment

n.
US /ˈsɛnəmənt/ UK /sˈɛntɪmənt/ sen·ti·ment UK spelling sentiment's, sentiment's

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate Formal

    an opinion or a feeling you have about a situation.

    a general thought, feeling, or attitude expressed toward a subject. Often used in formal contexts to describe public or market opinion.

    Simple

    I agree with the sentiment that we need more parks in the city.

    In context

    Market sentiment remained cautious as investors waited for the central bank to announce its latest decision on interest rates.

    Usage

    Often used with the verbs 'echo' or 'share' to show agreement.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Literary

    gentle or romantic feelings, sometimes when they seem a bit silly or too emotional.

    emotional reflection or tender feelings, often contrasted with reason or practical judgment.

    Simple

    There is no room for sentiment in a tough business deal.

    In context

    The old house held great sentimental value for her, though its crumbling walls were a practical nightmare.

    Usage

    Frequently appears in the phrase 'sentimental value'.

A common sentiment is shared in the nightlife industry: “Phones killed the dancefloor.” This isn’t surprising.

The Guardian· 14 Aug 2026

French officials have accused Russians of fostering anti-French sentiment in a number of African countries.

The Guardian· 13 Aug 2026

From Old French sentement, from Latin sentimentum.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Latin sentimentum
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Common
Updated