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.
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.