adjective

glib

glihb

adjective

Speaking smoothly and fluently but in a way that seems shallow, insincere, or lacking real thought.

"His glib excuse didn't convince anyone."

"She gave a glib answer instead of addressing the real problem."

How to Use Glib

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTalking easily and confidently, but without real substance or sincerity behind the words.

Common mistake

Almost always negative — calling someone "glib" is a criticism, not a compliment on their speaking skill.

Common pairings

glib answer glib remark glib response

glibber comparative, glibbed past tense, glibbed past tense, glibs plural, glibs plural, glibs singular, glibs singular, glibbest superlative

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Can you complete this real example?

His _____ excuse didn't convince anyone.

A shortened form of an older word, glibbery, meaning "slippery" — related to Dutch and Low German words for "slippery."

lib