smarmy

    [smär′mē]
Search YourDictionary Original Definitions
adjective
  1. The definition of smarmy is someone who comes across as being insincere.

    An example of someone who is smarmy is a used car salesman who tries to come across as if he is a distinguished businessman making you a fair deal but who sounds like he is lying.

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Search Webster's New World College Dictionary

adjective smarmier, smarmiest
Brit., Informal flattering in an oily, insincere manner; unctuous

Origin: from smarm, smalm, to bedaub, smear (from uncertain or unknown; perhaps ) plush -y

Related Forms:

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2010 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

 

Search The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language

adjective smarm·i·er, smarm·i·est
  1. Hypocritically, complacently, or effusively earnest; unctuous. See Synonyms at unctuous.
  2. Sleek.

Origin: From smarm, to smear.

Related Forms:

  • smarm·i·ness noun
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, 4th edition Copyright © 2010 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

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