cloy
UK[klɔɪ]US[klɔɪ]
v
to make you feel sick or annoyed by providing too much of something good, especially sweet food or pleasure
Etymology
the modern meaning of 'cloy' evolved through a fascinating metaphorical journey. its origin lies in the latin word 'clavus', meaning 'a nail'. this concept passed into old french as verbs meaning 'to nail up' or 'to stop up'. the sense transferred from physically blocking something to the figurative idea of overfilling or obstructing the stomach or senses. by the late 16th century, the word settled into its current abstract meaning, describing the unpleasant feeling of surfeit, as if one's capacity for enjoyment has been nailed shut or overloaded.
Analysis
the word is a simplex form. it is derived from the middle english verb 'acloyen' or 'cloyen', meaning 'to lame, obstruct, or satiate'. this in turn came from the old french 'encloyer' or 'cloyer', meaning 'to drive a nail into, stop up', which ultimately derives from the latin 'clavus', meaning 'a nail'.
Examples
the sweetness of the dessert began to cloy after a few bites.
his constant flattery started to cloy, making her suspicious of his motives.
the film's sentimental music and predictable plot eventually cloy the audience.