Definition

A term used to describe an excessive amount of emotion or sentimentality, often in art or music, that can be seen as overly sentimental or cheesy.

Example

The movie was filled with so much schmalz that it made some viewers roll their eyes.

Conversation

Did you see that movie everyone is talking about?

Yeah, I watched it last night, and it was full of schmalz.

I thought so too! It felt a bit over the top at times.

Exactly, sometimes less is more when it comes to emotion.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Schmalz originates from German, meaning rendered fat or grease, particularly from animals. It refers specifically to a type of fat used in cooking or as a spread.

Memory Tip

Think of the German word for fat, 'schmalz', which helps you remember that it refers to rendered animal fat or grease.

Visually Confused Words