schm-

English

Alternative forms

• shm-

Etymology

Imitative of many Yiddish words such as schmaltz or schmuck.

Pronunciation

• IPA^(key): /ʃm/

Prefix

schm-

1. (chiefly US) Used to form a reduplicated rhyming compound of any word in order to express disparagement, dismissal, or derision.

   I have to tell you, madam, that your son is suffering from an Oedipus complex. —Oedipus, Schmoedipus! What does it matter, so long as he loves his mother?

   Rain, schmain, we've got a game to play.

2. Used to form an intensified word, typically with words starting with m especially for comedic effect.

   Issa big schmood.

   Look at my big schmeat.

Related terms

• sch-

Anagrams

• CMHS, HMCS, MHCs