noun a weak or indecisive person
adjective lacking vigor or decisiveness; weak; indecisive
May be used to criticize politicians or policies seen as weak or indecisive
Often used in literary criticism to describe overly sentimental or weak writing or characters
Used as an example of a pejorative term or as a synonym for 'weak' or 'sentimental'
Can be used humorously to describe overly coddled or delicate children
Critics may use 'namby pamby' to dismiss something as lacking substance or depth
In the literary world, 'namby pamby' may be used to criticize writing that is overly sentimental or weak in substance.
Psychologists may use 'namby pamby' to describe behavior or attitudes that are overly delicate or lacking in assertiveness during therapy sessions.
Politicians may use 'namby pamby' to criticize policies or decisions that they perceive as weak or indecisive.
Teachers may use 'namby pamby' to describe students who are overly sensitive or easily offended in the classroom.