mushiness (8)
I believe the answer is:
schmaltz
'mushiness' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)
This is all the clue.
(Other definitions for schmaltz that I've seen before include "Extreme or excessive sentimentality" , "Jewish word meaning sugary sentimentality - has just one vowel" , "mush" , "Excessive sentimentality in art or music" , "Excessive sentimentality in music or film" .)