Schmaltziest: meaning, definitions and examples

emotional expression

The term 'schmaltziest' is derived from the Yiddish word 'schmaltz', which refers to rendered chicken fat but is often used metaphorically to describe something excessively sentimental or overly emotional. In this context, 'schmaltziest' describes a work of art, film, or literature that is overwhelmingly sentimental to the point of being cloying or cheesy. This sense of exaggeration often provokes both laughter and criticism, as it crosses the line from genuine emotion to melodrama. The word is commonly applied in a playful or slightly pejorative manner to denote that something is trying too hard to evoke feelings. People might use 'schmaltziest' to critique romantic comedies or tearjerker movies that rely heavily on exaggeration.

cloying, maudlin, overemotional, sentimental.

Examples of usage

• That movie was the schmaltziest I've ever watched.

• Her poem was criticized for being schmaltziest.

• I can't believe how schmaltziest that TV show has become.