What does schmoozed mean?
“Schmoozed” is the past tense of “schmooze,” an informal verb meaning to talk with someone socially in a friendly, often flattering manner. It commonly describes networking at parties, conferences, professional events, or other gatherings, and it can imply that the speaker is trying to make a useful connection or gain an advantage. The word often carries a slightly amused or mildly critical tone, suggesting conspicuous efforts to charm, ingratiate, or build influence. In everyday use, “schmoozed with” can describe ordinary conversation, while “schmoozed around” often suggests circulating and socializing with many people. It is especially common in North American English and is readily understood in informal British English as well.
verbTo talk with someone in a friendly, informal, often flattering way, especially in order to gain their cooperation, influence, or information.
- To socialize or network in a friendly, informal manner, especially for personal or professional advantage.
"The candidate schmoozed with influential donors before the election."
"She spent the evening schmoozing with potential investors."
"At the networking event, he schmoozed with everyone from influential companies."
To schmooze is to turn a casual conversation into social currency: networking, flattering, and making a memorable connection.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does schmoozed come from?
The origin of “schmooze” is uncertain, and its spelling reflects an informal American pronunciation rather than a transparent English derivation. The word became established in 20th-century American English, where it was associated with prolonged social conversation and networking. Its precise connection to earlier Yiddish or other immigrant-language forms is difficult to establish with certainty.
Related word forms
How schmoozed is actually used
Informal and often mildly disapproving: it can suggest flattering talk motivated by self-interest or a desire to advance socially or professionally.
Easily confused with schmoozed
“Schmoozed” means talked socially or ingratiatingly, while “smoozed” is the past tense of “smooze,” meaning kissed.