Smug - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Smug describes someone who is overly pleased with themselves, often in a self-satisfied or arrogant way. It conveys a sense of superiority or pride that can be irritating to others.
Definition:
Excessively self-satisfied or confident in one's superiority.
Synonyms:
complacent, self-satisfied, arrogant, conceited
Part of Speech:
adjective
Antonyms:
humble, modest
Common Collocations:
smug smile, smug expression, smug attitude
Derivatives:
smugly, smugness
Usage Tips:
Use "smug" to describe someone overly pleased with themselves, often annoyingly so.
Common Phrases:
smug grin, look smug, feel smug
Etymology:
Originates from Low German "smuk" (pretty) and Old English "smēagan" (to think).
Examples:
- 1. She wore a smug smile after winning the game easily.
- 2. He felt smug about finishing the test before everyone else.
- 3. The cat looked smug after stealing the dog's food.
- 4. Her smug attitude made her unpopular with classmates.
- 5. They were too smug about their early lead and lost in the end.