Smarted: meaning, definitions and examples

past tense

The term 'smarted' is the past tense of the verb 'smart,' which means to cause a sharp pain or stinging sensation. This can refer to both physical sensations, such as a small cut or injury, and emotional pain, such as distress or regret. The word often describes a prickling or irritating feeling that can evoke a strong response. In literature, it is commonly used to express feelings of discomfort or anguish that linger beyond the initial cause of pain.

ached, hurt, stung, twinged

Examples of usage

• After the bee sting, my arm smarted.

• He smarted from the criticism he received.

• The cut on her finger smarted painfully.

• She smarted at the harsh words spoken to her.