Pronunciation: [ˌɛsˈe͡ɪt͡ʃmˈi͡ə] (IPA) 
The word "shmear" is an informal way to spell "schmear", which is defined as a spread or a smear of something. The correct pronunciation is /ʃmir/ in IPA phonetic transcription, with the "sch" sound being pronounced as a "sh" sound followed by a short "i" vowel and an "r". The informal spelling with "shm" rather than "schm" is common in casual speech and writing, but it is considered incorrect in more formal contexts.
Shmear, also spelled as schmear, is a noun primarily used in American English, with origins in Yiddish. It refers to a small amount or portion of something spread or applied on a surface, usually in a smooth and even manner.
The term is commonly used in food-related contexts, particularly in the description of toppings or spreads, such as cream cheese, butter, or other condiments, applied onto bread, bagels, or sandwiches. In this sense, shmear is often associated with Jewish cuisine and the traditional method of smearing the mentioned spreads onto baked goods.
Additionally, shmear can be used metaphorically to describe a layer of influence, persuasion, or promotion, particularly in reference to public relations or advertising tactics. It suggests an application of influence that is intended to spread widely and have a broad impact.
In a more abstract sense, shmear can also denote a vague or unspecified amount or quantity of something. It can be used to express a general idea of a small or indefinite measure, often without specifying an exact number or amount.
Overall, the term shmear encapsulates the notion of spreading or smearing something onto a surface, whether literally or metaphorically, with connotations of Jewish culinary traditions, marketing strategies, or an unspecified measure.
The word "shmear" most likely derives from the Yiddish language, which is a High German-based language with Hebrew and Slavic influences spoken by Ashkenazi Jews. In Yiddish, the word is spelled שמיר (pronounced shmir) and it means "to spread", "to smear", or "to coat". The term was commonly used in Yiddish cooking and baking, particularly in reference to spreading or smearing cream cheese or butter on bread or bagels. Over time, the word "shmear" has been adopted into English, often referring to the act of spreadings or smearing anything on food, such as cream cheese or other condiments.
