SCHMALTZY Synonyms: 52 Similar and Opposite Words

schmaltzy

adjective

Definition of schmaltzy

as in sentimental

appealing to the emotions in an obvious and tiresome way a schmaltzy television commercial featuring a photogenic, perfect family

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of schmaltzy Albini doesn’t dress up those songs with any schmaltzy production or studio tricks. — David Harris, SPIN, 11 June 2026 In the way that Harrison looks to the Bible for models of relationships and drama, Cappa’s Haha, You Clowns looks to schmaltzy sitcoms and after school specials. — James Folta, Literary Hub, 18 Dec. 2025 Its almost schmaltzy final notes are a brilliant companion to Coppola’s unforgettable ending. — David Ehrlich, IndieWire, 20 Aug. 2025 This chicken was juicy, tenderly shreddable and doused in a schmaltzy sauce, an emulsion of chicken fat and stock, landing somewhere in between chicken gravy and milky oxtail broth. — Cesar Hernandez, San Francisco Chronicle, 1 July 2025

Recent Examples of Synonyms for schmaltzy

Adjective

What was once a contemporary exploration of horror has become a sentimental aesthetic, with this particular version of 2011 looking ironically idealistic because younger viewers never had to live inside it.

— Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 6 Oct. 2026
In a sentimental moment before Game 2 of the Wild Card Series, Bellinger caught the ceremonial first pitch from his father, Clay Bellinger, who played for the Yankees from 1999-2001.

— Peter Sblendorio, New York Daily News, 1 Oct. 2026

Definition of sentimental

Adjective

The lightweight, slightly milky formula sank into my skin quickly without feeling sticky or heavy, leaving behind a luminous finish that made my complexion look fresher almost immediately.

— Lucy Partington, Glamour, 7 Oct. 2026
Our highlights were the sticky Yabba pot rice and the lamb curry, which were fragrant and delicate but packed a punch.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026

Definition of sticky

Browse Nearby Words

schmaltz

schmaltzy

schmear

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“Schmaltzy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/schmaltzy. Accessed 10 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of schmaltzy

adjective

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