Smarmy

Pronunciation: /ˈsmɑrmi/

Definitions of smarmy

adjective having a false earnestness or ingratiating manner

Example Sentences

A1 He is a smarmy salesman who always tries to flatter customers.

A2 The politician's smarmy smile didn't fool anyone.

B1 The smarmy host of the talk show annoyed many viewers with his insincere compliments.

B2 She couldn't stand his smarmy attitude and decided to avoid him at all costs.

C1 The CEO's smarmy demeanor made it difficult for employees to trust his intentions.

C2 Despite his smarmy charm, she saw through his facade and refused to be manipulated.

Examples of smarmy in a Sentence

formal The politician's smarmy demeanor did not sit well with the voters.

informal I can't stand that smarmy guy who always tries to act so charming.

slang That smarmy dude thinks he's so slick, but he's really just a phony.

figurative Her words were coated in a smarmy layer of insincerity.

Grammatical Forms of smarmy

• past tense: smarmed
• plural: smarmies
• comparative: smarmier
• superlative: smarmiest
• present tense: smarms
• future tense: will smarm
• perfect tense: have smarmed
• continuous tense: is smarming
• singular: smarmy
• positive degree: smarmy
• infinitive: to smarm
• gerund: smarming
• participle: smarmed

Origin and Evolution of smarmy

First Known Use: 1924 year

Language of Origin: English

Story behind the word: The word 'smarmy' is believed to have originated from the English dialect word 'smalm', meaning to smear or soil, combined with the derogatory suffix '-y'.

Evolution of the word: Originally used to describe someone who is excessively ingratiating or unctuous, the term 'smarmy' has evolved to also convey a sense of insincerity or sliminess in modern usage.