noun

smarty

SMAH-tee

Smarty (noun) means an informal, often mocking term for someone who acts overly clever. Example: “Don't be such a smarty — just answer the question.”

noun

An informal, often mocking term for someone who acts overly clever.

"Don't be such a smarty — just answer the question."

How to use smarty

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA playful or mocking word for a show-off who thinks they're clever.

When to use it

Informal, often used teasingly, as in "smarty-pants."

Word forms

smarties plural

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Don't be such a _____ — just answer the question.

Etymology

Formed from "smart" plus the informal suffix "-y."

Rhymes for smarty

arty party Marty hearty Fogarty Moriarty

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Frequently asked questions

What does “smarty” mean?

The word “smarty” means an informal, often mocking term for someone who acts overly clever. In plain terms, a playful or mocking word for a show-off who thinks they're clever.

How do you pronounce “smarty”?

“Smarty” is pronounced SMAH-tee (/ˈsmɑɹti/ in IPA).

How do you use “smarty” in a sentence?

Here is “smarty” used in a sentence: “Don't be such a smarty — just answer the question.”

What part of speech is “smarty”?

“Smarty” is a noun.