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Schmalzy - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Schmalzy describes something overly sentimental, emotional, or cloyingly sweet, often in a way that feels exaggerated or insincere. It is commonly used to criticize music, films, or writing for being excessively sappy.

schmalzy

/ˈʃmɑlzi/ /ˈʃmælzi/

Definition:

Excessively sentimental or emotionally effusive, often in a contrived or insincere way.

Synonyms:

sentimental, mawkish, saccharine, cloying

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

unsentimental, restrained

Common Collocations:

schmalzy music, schmalzy movie, schmalzy speech

Derivatives:

schmaltz, schmaltzy

Usage Tips:

Use "schmalzy" to describe overly sentimental art or behavior that feels exaggerated or fake.

Common Phrases:

schmalzy love song, schmalzy romance, schmalzy dialogue

Etymology:

Derived from Yiddish "schmaltz" (rendered fat), metaphorically meaning excessive sentimentality.

Examples:

  • 1. The movie's ending was so schmalzy it made me cringe.
  • 2. Her schmalzy speech about childhood memories bored the audience.
  • 3. He avoids romantic comedies because they’re too schmalzy for his taste.
  • 4. The song’s lyrics were sweet but veered into schmalzy territory.

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