What does schmaltzier mean?
Schmaltzier is an adjective used to describe something as overly sentimental, emotionally manipulative, or excessively showy. It is often used to criticize art, literature, or film that is perceived as trying too hard to evoke emotions or manipulate the audience. The word has German roots, with 'Schmalz' meaning 'grease' or 'fat', likely due to the association of sentimental or emotional manipulation with excessive or insincere emotional display. Schmaltzier can also be used to describe something that is excessively showy or gaudy, and is often used in a negative or critical context. While it can be a useful word for describing something that is overly sentimental or emotionally manipulative, it is not commonly used in everyday conversation and may be more suitable for formal or critical writing.
adjectiveDescribing something as overly sentimental, emotionally manipulative, or excessively showy.
- Describing something as overly sentimental, emotionally manipulative, or excessively showy.
"The movie's schmaltzier ending left many viewers feeling emotionally drained."
"The movie's schmaltzier ending left many viewers feeling emotionally drained."
"The overly sentimental language in the novel's final chapter was criticized for being too schmaltzier."
The plural form schmaltziers is used to describe multiple instances of something that is overly sentimental, emotionally manipulative, or excessively showy.
"The overly sentimental language in the novel's final chapter was criticized for being too schmaltzier."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of schmaltzier
The word schmaltzier is derived from the German word 'Schmalz', meaning 'grease' or 'fat'. This etymology is likely due to the association of sentimental or emotional manipulation with excessive or insincere emotional display. The word has been adopted into English and is used to describe something that is overly sentimental, emotionally manipulative, or excessively showy.
Usage notes
Schmaltzier is often used to describe something that is perceived as overly sentimental or emotionally manipulative, particularly in the context of art, literature, or film. It can also be used to describe something that is excessively showy or gaudy.