as in sentimental
appealing to the emotions in an obvious and tiresome way
a schmaltzy television commercial featuring a photogenic, perfect family
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
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 schmaltzy
Its almost schmaltzy final notes are a brilliant companion to Coppola’s unforgettable ending.
—
David Ehrlich, IndieWire, 20 Aug. 2025
David Ehrlich, IndieWire, 20 Aug. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for schmaltzy
Adjective
-
If anything, his films fight aggressively against a sentimental reading (There Will Be Blood, The Master, Phantom Thread) or pivot so hard into emotional catharsis that the fabric of reality breaks (Magnolia).—
Joe Reid,
Vulture,
4 Oct. 2025
-
The film benefits from its avoidance of a too-tidy, sentimental outcome, even if some in the audience might be left craving one.—
David Rooney,
HollywoodReporter,
3 Oct. 2025
Adjective
-
The sloppy play extended beyond the penalties.—
Daniel Popper,
New York Times,
6 Oct. 2025
-
The sweater’s hip-skimming length and relaxed cut result in a fit that feels effortlessly lived-in (not sloppy), while its wear-with-anything design is easy to style.—
Averi Baudler,
PEOPLE,
4 Oct. 2025
Adjective
-
Its sheer pink hue and non-sticky texture check all my boxes.—
Sarah Hoffmann,
Allure,
3 Oct. 2025
-
That commitment was further emphasized by the addition of Reed, who replaced another sticky corner in Carlton Davis III.—
Colton Pouncy,
New York Times,
2 Oct. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Schmaltzy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/schmaltzy. Accessed 8 Oct. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share