smarmy

[ smahr-mee ]

adjective

, smarm·i·er, smarm·i·est.

1. excessively or unctuously flattering, ingratiating, servile, etc.:

   the emcee with the smarmy welcome.

smarmy

/ ˈsmɑːmɪ /

adjective

1. informal.
   obsequiously flattering or unpleasantly suave

Derived Forms

• ˈsmarminess, noun
• ˈsmarmily, adverb

Other Words From

• smarmi·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of smarmy¹

1905–10; smarm, variant of dial. smalm to smear, make slick (< ?) + -y ¹

Example Sentences

“Whatever I do, I do for America,” he intones with smarmy conviction.

From Salon

You know this, I know this, and all of the smarmy pundits clucking about civility and counseling graciousness in defeat know this.

From Slate

The actor is also known for playing a meta-version of himself in “Don’t Trust the B— in Apartment 23,” where he’s a smarmy has-been nicknamed “The Beek From the Creek.”

From Los Angeles Times

Vance tries to do it with a smarmy smile.

From Salon

Rory turns into sandworm fodder the second he admits his slimy MO, suggesting that the smarmy leech was beyond redemption.

From Salon

Related Words

• smug