schmaltz 1 of 2

variants also schmalz
as in sludge
something (as a work of literature or music) that is too sentimental the love song was a typical example of overproduced schmaltz

Synonyms & Similar Words

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schmaltzy

2 of 2

adjective

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of schmaltz
Noun
Do not skip the rich, crispy schmaltz toasts, which take this dip up a level. Saveur Editors, Saveur, 5 Feb. 2025 The horror factor, however, takes a back seat when Ally and Jay share comically gratuitous moments of rom-com schmaltz. Andrea Flores, Los Angeles Times, 5 Feb. 2025 Or whatever the fat, the combination of oil and the schmaltz at that point, would float up. Bon Appétit, 22 Jan. 2025 Forever, Michael has some funky, feisty music, but it’s ultimately overpowered by schmaltz. Al Shipley, SPIN, 16 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for schmaltz
Recent Examples of Synonyms for schmaltz
Noun
  • By breaking down quickly and efficiently in the septic tank, the toilet paper minimizes the contribution to the sludge layer.
    Timothy Dale, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Aug. 2025
  • The band’s macabre theatricality pricks up in the advancing madness of shows from hard-rock staples like Alice Cooper throughout the ’70s and the plummeting tempos that would inform stoner rock and sludge metal later on.
    Craig Jenkins, Vulture, 25 July 2025
Adjective
  • The character Kracht sets off on a sentimental road trip with his demented, aging mother, who is also addicted to both drugs and alcohol.
    The Know, Denver Post, 17 Aug. 2025
  • The vast majority of the 15,000-plus who packed Pine Knob were happy to stick it out for the sentimental, sing-along ride.
    Brian McCollum, Freep.com, 15 Aug. 2025
Noun
  • If more goo is found, the goal will be to collect it without disturbing its oxygen-free environment, said lead researcher Cody Sheik, a microbial ecologist at Large Lakes Observatory.
    Taylor Nicioli, CNN Money, 1 Aug. 2025
  • The strawberries have a dull, squalid complexion, trapped in a strawberry goo.
    Alex Beggs, Bon Appetit Magazine, 19 July 2025
Adjective
  • Toronto talks often about turning the page — leaving sloppy play or outside noise in the previous night.
    Mitch Bannon, New York Times, 20 Aug. 2025
  • They’re known for their sloppy juan– brisket trimmings and pulled pork in a flour tortilla.
    Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 18 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • Despite skyrocketing prices for TV rights from name-brand sports leagues, even smaller streaming services know their future will be driven in part by that particularly sticky tune-in driver for audiences.
    David Bloom, Forbes.com, 14 Aug. 2025
  • For dried or sticky grease, Marshall suggests switching to dish soap diluted in water and rubbing gently with a soft sponge or microfiber cloth.
    Daley Quinn, Southern Living, 14 Aug. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Schmaltz.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/schmaltz. Accessed 27 Aug. 2025.

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