smug
Smug (adjective) means Overly pleased with oneself, in a way that others find annoying. Example: “He gave a smug grin after winning the argument.”
How to use smug
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSelf-satisfied in an irritating way — thinking you're better or smarter than everyone else and showing it.
Always negative — you would never compliment someone by calling them smug.
Word forms
smugger comparative, smugged past tense, smugs singular, smuggest superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He gave a _____ grin after winning the argument.
Etymology
From an earlier sense of "neat, spruce," borrowed from Low German smuk ("pretty, trim").
Rhymes for smug
See all rhymes for smug →Frequently asked questions
What does “smug” mean?
The word “smug” means overly pleased with oneself, in a way that others find annoying. In plain terms, self-satisfied in an irritating way — thinking you're better or smarter than everyone else and showing it.
How do you pronounce “smug”?
“Smug” is pronounced smuhg (/smʌɡ/ in IPA).
How do you use “smug” in a sentence?
Here is “smug” used in a sentence: “He gave a smug grin after winning the argument.”
What part of speech is “smug”?
“Smug” is an adjective.
Where does the word “smug” come from?
The word “smug” comes from German. From an earlier sense of "neat, spruce," borrowed from Low German smuk ("pretty, trim").
Is “smug” a common word?
“Smug” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C1 level.