saucy

[ saw-see ]

adjective

, sau·ci·er, sau·ci·est.

1. impertinent; insolent:

   a saucy remark; a saucy child.

   Synonyms: brazen, fresh, impudent, rude

2. pert; boldly smart:

   a saucy little hat for Easter.

   Synonyms: jaunty

saucy

/ ˈsɔːsɪ /

adjective

1. impertinent
2. pert; jaunty

   a saucy hat

Derived Forms

• ˈsaucily, adverb
• ˈsauciness, noun

Other Words From

• sauci·ly adverb
• sauci·ness noun
• over·saucy adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of saucy¹

First recorded in 1500–10; sauce + -y ¹

Example Sentences

“Call U Up,” a funny and brash single off his LP “Timeless,” was just saucy enough to turn heads all over the grounds.

From Los Angeles Times

I mean, the tuba players are always the sauciest ones in the band.

From Los Angeles Times

The saucy cucumbers are enjoyed straight out of the container with chopsticks.

From Salon

This partnership has been saucy and satisfying, allowing more people to get involved and share love through a home-cooked meal.

From Salon

The pizza doesn’t feel overly greasy — just balanced and spicy and saucy in all the best ways.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• brash
• cheeky
• flippant
• rude