heartstrings

American  

[hahrt-stringz] / ˈhɑrtˌstrɪŋz /

plural noun

1. the deepest feelings; the strongest affections.

   to tug at one's heartstrings.

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heartstrings British  

/ ˈhɑːtˌstrɪŋz /

plural noun

1. facetious  deep emotions or feelings

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Etymology

Origin of heartstrings

First recorded in 1475–85; heart + strings ( def. )

Example Sentences

Richter’s spare composition is meant to tug at the heartstrings, and it does its job just as well here, especially for unsuspecting viewers.

From Salon

He said claims like Wandelt's "pull on your heartstrings" but were "damaging" to the search for his daughter.

From BBC

A third of it wants to be a feisty industry satire, but the rest believes there’s prestige value in tugging on the heartstrings.

From Los Angeles Times

Watching him gradually turn tender sends tingles through your heartstrings.

From Los Angeles Times

Sparks is known for pulling at readers’ heartstrings with cinematic love stories — 11 of which have made their way to the big screen, and several of which Sparks produced himself.

From Los Angeles Times