comédie larmoyante
/kɒməˌdi lɑːmwəˈjant/ /kɒməˌdi lɑːmwəˈjɑːnt/Now historical
noun
A sentimental and moralizing form of comic drama popular in France in the 18th cent.
Origin
Late 18th century; earliest use found in Charles Burney (1726–1814), musician and author. From French comédie larmoyante, lit. ‘tearful comedy’ from comédie + larmoyante, feminine of larmoyant.