as in sentimental
appealing to the emotions in an obvious and tiresome way
a schmaltzy television commercial featuring a photogenic, perfect family
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Recent Examples of schmaltzy
In the way that Harrison looks to the Bible for models of relationships and drama, Cappa’s Haha, You Clowns looks to schmaltzy sitcoms and after school specials.
—
James Folta, Literary Hub, 18 Dec. 2025
Its almost schmaltzy final notes are a brilliant companion to Coppola’s unforgettable ending.
—David Ehrlich, IndieWire, 20 Aug. 2025
James Folta, Literary Hub, 18 Dec. 2025
Its almost schmaltzy final notes are a brilliant companion to Coppola’s unforgettable ending.
—David Ehrlich, IndieWire, 20 Aug. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for schmaltzy
Adjective
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Musk appeared sentimental upon the announcement that Tesla would wind down production of the vehicles.—
Andrea Guzmán,
Austin American Statesman,
30 Jan. 2026
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Crushow Herring, the art director of the Sidewalk Project, said Raines was both sentimental and protective of the homeless community.—
Rebecca Boone,
Fortune,
29 Jan. 2026
Adjective
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At times, Epstein characterized the billionaire’s office as sloppy and amateurish, exposing him to taxes and reputational risks while making sensitive payments.—
Tom Schoenberg,
Fortune,
5 Feb. 2026
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The Heat also ran into its own sloppy play, committing 19 turnovers.—
Anthony Chiang,
Miami Herald,
1 Feb. 2026
Adjective
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Add up to 1/4 cup remaining flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, as needed, if dough is too sticky.—
Kimberly Holland,
Southern Living,
3 Feb. 2026
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Over the last few years, a mix of economic hurdles, like rapidly rising prices caused by sticky inflation, has helped to drive borrowers' reliance on credit cards upward and high average credit card rates have further propelled cardholders' balances upward.—
Angelica Leicht,
CBS News,
2 Feb. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Schmaltzy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/schmaltzy. Accessed 8 Feb. 2026.
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