Schmunzeln (SHMOON-tseln) Literally “a small smile” or “a little chuckle” From smunzen (to smile or laugh softly) + -eln (a verb ending that can make an action feel smaller or softer). Used since about the 1400s, schmunzeln still means that small smile you get when something is funny in a gentle way. Very useful when the cake looks impressive and you know it was easier than everyone thinks..