Quick definitions from WordNet (sentimentalize)
▸ verb: look at with sentimentality or turn into an object of sentiment ("Don't sentimentalize the past events")
▸ verb: make (someone or something) sentimental or imbue with sentimental qualities ("Too much poetry sentimentalizes the mind")
▸ verb: act in a sentimental way or indulge in sentimental thoughts or expression
▸ Also see sentimentalize
▸ verb: look at with sentimentality or turn into an object of sentiment ("Don't sentimentalize the past events")
▸ verb: make (someone or something) sentimental or imbue with sentimental qualities ("Too much poetry sentimentalizes the mind")
▸ verb: act in a sentimental way or indulge in sentimental thoughts or expression
▸ Also see sentimentalize