Yiddish Words Make Eslpod American English Begin Means

The "Yiddish" language is spoken by many older Jewish people, especially in Eastern Europe. Many Yiddish words are also used by American English speakers. Some of them are real Yiddish words, but others have been "made up" (created). Many of these words begin with the "prefix" (letters or syllables that begin a word) "sch(m)" or "sh(m)."

For example, to "schlep" means to "drag" (pull an object while it is still partially resting on the ground) a very heavy object, or to carry something on a long, difficult journey: "I have my own books to carry! Why would I want to schlep your book bag, too?"

A "schmo" or a "schmuck" is a rude word used to refer to a person who is very stupid, foolish, or easily tricked. "Can you believe that schmuck bought that old car for $5,000?" Or, "Some schmo hit my car in the parking lot and then drove away without even leaving a note!"

The verb "to schmooze" means to chat or speak informally with someone, possibly to speak with someone who has more power and influence, trying to make a good impression on that person: "Nobody likes going to holiday parties at work, where everyone is expected to schmooze with each other and try to impress the management team."

A "schnoz" or "schnozzle" is used to talk about a nose, especially a very large nose: "I hope your baby doesn't grow up to have a schnoz like yours!"

Finally, a "shtick" is used to talk about a funny characteristic or something one does for humor, to make other people laugh: "That comic always uses the same shtick, slipping on a banana peel to try to make his audience laugh."