sentimentalize

(verb) look at with sentimentality or turn into an object of sentiment. Synonyms: sentimentalise. Example: "Don't sentimentalize the past events."

(verb) make (someone or something) sentimental or imbue with sentimental qualities. Synonyms: sentimentalise. Examples: "Too much poetry sentimentalizes the mind." "These experiences have sentimentalized her."

(verb) act in a sentimental way or indulge in sentimental thoughts or expression. Synonyms: sentimentalise, sentimentize, sentimentise.