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Schmo: meaning, definitions and examples

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schmo

 

[ ʃmoʊ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

slang term

A schmo is an informal term referring to a person who is perceived as foolish or incompetent, often used in a lighthearted manner. It can imply a lack of sophistication or common sense, but is generally not meant to be overly offensive.

Synonyms

clumsy, fool, simpleton.

Examples of usage

  • Don't be such a schmo and forget your keys again.
  • He’s a nice guy, but he can be a real schmo at times.
  • She called him a schmo for tripping over his own feet.
  • I can't believe you're making that schmo like that.
  • Every time he tries to impress her, he ends up looking like a schmo.

Translations

Translations of the word "schmo" in other languages:

🇵🇹 idiota

🇮🇳 बेवकूफ

🇩🇪 Trottel

🇮🇩 bodoh

🇺🇦 дурень

🇵🇱 idiota

🇯🇵 バカ

🇫🇷 idiot

🇪🇸 idiota

🇹🇷 salak

🇰🇷 바보

🇸🇦 أحمق

🇨🇿 idiot

🇸🇰 idiot

🇨🇳 傻瓜

🇸🇮 idiot

🇮🇸 fífl

🇰🇿 ақылсыз

🇬🇪 იდიოტი

🇦🇿 dünyadan xəbəri olmayan

🇲🇽 idiota

Etymology

The term 'schmo' originated from the Yiddish word 'shmuck', which itself has roots in the German word 'schmuck', meaning 'jewelry' but has evolved to become an informal term for someone who is foolish or contemptible. The word began to appear in American English during the mid-20th century, particularly in the context of Jewish American communities. Over time, it has spread into broader usage, often employed humorously to describe someone who is bumbling or clumsy, without invoking the harsher connotations of more severe insults. The word reflects a playful critique of someone's lack of social grace or intelligence, maintaining a light-hearted tone even when used to poke fun at others.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #43,106, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.