Smartypants Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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smartypants
[หsmษหrtiหpรฆnts ]
Definitions
intelligent person
A smartypants is someone who is very clever or intelligent, often showing off their knowledge or abilities.
Synonyms
brainiac, genius, know-it-all.
Examples of usage
- He always has the answer to every question - what a smartypants!
- Don't be such a smartypants and let others have a chance to speak.
person who is overly confident
A smartypants is someone who is excessively self-assured or cocky, often irritating others with their arrogance.
Synonyms
arrogant, conceited, show off.
Examples of usage
- He struts around like a smartypants, thinking he's better than everyone else.
- Her constant bragging makes her come across as a smartypants.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- The term has been featured in various sitcoms and cartoons, often used by adults to poke fun at overly confident children.
- Smartypants has made its way into board games and trivia contests, where players who know too much are affectionately teased.
Psychology
- People labeled as smartypants may be perceived as show-offs, which can lead to mixed social responses โ some may admire them, while others may feel annoyed.
- The term highlights a common social dynamic where intelligence is celebrated but can also provoke jealousy or discomfort among peers.
Literature
- Authors often use characters labeled as smartypants to create humorous or relatable scenarios, illustrating how intelligence can be both a gift and a source of frustration.
- In children's literature, smartypants characters sometimes learn the importance of humility, making them great for teaching lessons.
Education
- In academic settings, the term smartypants can refer to students who frequently answer questions or correct others, often creating a competitive atmosphere.
- The phenomenon of the smartypants student can lead to both encouragement for learning and caution regarding inclusivity in group discussions.
Origin of 'smartypants'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'smartypants' first appeared in the United States in the early 20th century, combining 'smart' and a playful reference to clothing.
- Initially, the word was used in a more positive way, referring to someone clever, but it has evolved to carry a teasing sense.
The term 'smartypants' originated in the early 20th century in the United States. It is a combination of 'smart', meaning clever or intelligent, and 'pants' which can be a slang term for trousers. Over time, 'smartypants' evolved to describe someone who is either highly intelligent or overly confident in a slightly mocking or playful manner.
See also: outsmart, smart, smarter, smartness, smartwatch.