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noun

smartass

Smartass (noun) means someone who acts in an obnoxiously clever or know-it-all way. Example: “Nobody likes a smartass who corrects everyone at the dinner table.”

noun
1
Someone who acts in an obnoxiously clever or know-it-all way.
"Nobody likes a smartass who corrects everyone at the dinner table."

How to use smartass

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishAn annoyingly clever or sarcastic person.

When to use it

Vulgar slang — avoid in formal writing or polite company.

Word forms

smartassed past tense, smartasses plural, smartasses singular

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Etymology

A compound of "smart" and the slang suffix "-ass," used to intensify or mock the quality it attaches to.

smart aleck

Related words

Frequently asked questions

What does “smartass” mean?

The word “smartass” means someone who acts in an obnoxiously clever or know-it-all way. In plain terms, an annoyingly clever or sarcastic person.

How do you use “smartass” in a sentence?

Here is “smartass” used in a sentence: “Nobody likes a smartass who corrects everyone at the dinner table.”

What is another word for “smartass”?

Words with a similar meaning to “smartass” include smart aleck.

What part of speech is “smartass”?

“Smartass” is a noun.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial