schmaltz

noun

ˈshmȯlts How to pronounce schmaltz (audio)
variants also schmalz
Definition of schmaltznext
as in corn
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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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 Heat schmaltz in a large pot to 325 F, ensuring the fat fully submerges the chicken. — Kelly McCarthy, ABC News, 9 June 2026 Also, schmaltz, wowing guests with his Chicken Fat Shio Ramen. — Amy Drew Thompson, The Orlando Sentinel, 3 Feb. 2026 What distinguishes Poppy within a subgenre plagued by hambone spectacle is her agility in avoiding schmaltz. — Eli Enis, Pitchfork, 3 Feb. 2026 The positive thread treats this less as prestige cinema and more as a feel-good jukebox experience, repeatedly framing schmaltz as intentional and welcome. — Anthony D'alessandro, Deadline, 26 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for schmaltz
Recent Examples of Synonyms for schmaltz
  1. corn
  2. sludge
Noun
  • Along the nearby midway, two young women were selling kettle corn at one of the fair’s three kettle corn booths.
    — Phil Diehl, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 July 2026
  • It’s topped with edamame, corn ribs, crunchy tortilla strips, and sherry dressing—because after a day in the theme park, a vegetable-forward entree is always welcome.
    — Jacqueline Dole, Travel + Leisure, 5 July 2026
Definition of corn
Noun
  • But the real key to the magic is that frenetic tone — the dirty, grungy, previously unheard sludge created when guitarist/Ray’s brother Dave Davies slashed his amp’s speaker with a razor.
    — Debby Wolfinsohn, Entertainment Weekly, 7 July 2026
  • Inline water filters can be installed and are widely used to trap dirt, debris, and sludge.
    — SJ McShane, Martha Stewart, 3 July 2026
Definition of sludge

Browse Nearby Words

schlumps
schmaltz
schmaltzy
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Schmaltz.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/schmaltz. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on schmaltz

Nglish: Translation of schmaltz for Spanish Speakers

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