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Schmooze Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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schmooze

[ʃmuːz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

casual conversation

To schmooze means to engage in casual or informal conversation, often in a social context, where the goal is to establish rapport or make connections. It is frequently used in the context of networking, particularly in professional or business environments.

Synonyms

chat, mingle, network, socialize.

Examples of usage

  • He was schmoozing with potential clients at the event.
  • She loves to schmooze at parties and meet new people.
  • They spent the evening schmoozing over drinks.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In business and networking contexts, schmoozing is considered an important skill for building relationships.
  • In social gatherings, schmoozing can lighten the mood and create a friendly environment, often leading to interesting discussions.
  • The art of schmoozing has been explored in various films, showcasing the blend of humor and social interaction.

Pop Culture

  • The concept of schmoozing is featured in TV shows like 'Friends', highlighting its role in social dynamics.
  • Comedians often use schmoozing in their routines to illustrate awkward social interactions or networking mishaps.
  • Schmoozing has been portrayed in films to demonstrate the difference between genuine friendships and superficial connections.

Social Psychology

  • Studies indicate that people's perception of others can be enhanced through schmoozing, as it builds trust and rapport.
  • Engaging in friendly conversations can increase feelings of belonging and community among individuals.
  • The psychological benefits of schmoozing include anxiety reduction, as casual dialogue can ease social tension.

Origin of 'schmooze'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'schmooze' comes from Yiddish, where 'shmuesn' means to chat or gossip.
  • It entered English in the 1930s, reflecting the influence of Jewish culture in American cities.
  • Related words in Yiddish include 'shmoose' which conveys the idea of friendly talk.

The term 'schmooze' comes from the Yiddish word 'shmuesn' (שמוּיסן), which means 'to chat' or 'to converse'. It is derived from the German 'schmusen', which has a similar meaning. The word gained popularity in the 20th century, particularly in American English, as Yiddish culture and language became more integrated into mainstream society. 'Schmoozing' often implies a friendly or superficial conversation, typically aimed at making social connections rather than discussing serious topics. The informal and light-hearted connotation of the word contributes to its appeal in social and business contexts, where networking and relationship-building are essential.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,527, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.