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Smugly: meaning, definitions and examples

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smugly

 

[ smʌɡli ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

behavioral attitude

In a smugly manner means showing excessive pride in oneself or one’s achievements. It often reflects a sense of self-satisfaction that might also imply a lack of empathy for others. This behavior can easily be perceived as arrogant or condescending.

Synonyms

complacently, proudly, self-righteously, smug

Examples of usage

  • He smiled smugly after answering the question correctly.
  • She walked smugly through the room, clearly proud of her promotion.
  • They spoke smugly about their recent successes, ignoring their friends' struggles.

Translations

Translations of the word "smugly" in other languages:

🇵🇹 com desprezo

🇮🇳 गर्व से

🇩🇪 selbstgefällig

🇮🇩 sombong

🇺🇦 самовдоволено

🇵🇱 z zadowoleniem

🇯🇵 得意げに

🇫🇷 avec suffisance

🇪🇸 con desprecio

🇹🇷 kibirle

🇰🇷 거드름 피우며

🇸🇦 بغرور

🇨🇿 s opovržením

🇸🇰 s pohŕdaním

🇨🇳 得意洋洋地

🇸🇮 s ponosom

🇮🇸 með sjálfsánægju

🇰🇿 менменділікпен

🇬🇪 თვალყურისმოძრაობით

🇦🇿 özündən razı

🇲🇽 con arrogancia

Word origin

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.

Word Frequency Rank

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