#4: Schmaltz

Definition:

1 : sentimental or florid music or art 2 : sentimentality

About the Word:

Schmaltz started being used in English in the mid-1930s, and is unusual in that it began its life with a literal and a figurative meaning (most words wait a while before being used metaphorically). The literal meaning is 'the rendered fat of poultry,' a substance that is much in use in traditional Jewish cooking. The extended meaning of schmaltz was first applied to popular music of a cloying, or overly sentimental, variety.

Example:

"Kleiber moves along, too, never indulging in the ridiculous schmaltz that all too often passes for authenticity." — American Record Guide, Sept./Oct. 2001