Smugly: meaning, definitions and examples

The word 'smug' is derived from the late 18th century, possibly coming from the dialectical English word 'smug,' which means 'neat' or 'trim.' It was first recorded in 1781. The adverbial form 'smugly' emerged later, retaining the core meaning of showing a sense of superiority or self-satisfaction. Interestingly, the word's roots can also be traced back to Scandinavian languages, where similar forms exist, suggesting a linguistic interplay that has evolved over time. By the 19th century, 'smugly' took on a more negative connotation, often associated with self-satisfaction at the expense of others. Its usage in literature and colloquial speech has since cemented its place in the English language, often used to describe individuals exhibiting an unwarranted sense of self-importance.

At rank #28,627, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

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• 28624 bawled
• 28625 reassemble
• 28626 bloating
• 28627 smugly
• 28628 dignify
• 28629 entangle
• 28630 affability
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