Need another word for Smug? Use these synonyms of Smug from our thesaurus to say it differently.
Synonyms & Similar Words
self-satisfied
complacent
content
pleased
satisfied
gratified
delighted
thrilled
proud
arrogant
haughty
conceited
vain
egotistical
pompous
pretentious
superior
snobbish
condescending
patronizing
disdainful
scornful
dismissive
aloof
distant
reserved
smugly
self-important
holier-than-thou
sanctimonious
self-righteous
Meaning of Smug
Having or showing an excessive pride in one's accomplishments or qualities.
Definitions
- Having or showing an excessive pride in one's accomplishments or qualities, often in a way that annoys others
- Feeling or showing too much satisfaction with oneself or one's achievements
Etymology of Smug
The word "smug" originated in the mid-17th century, derived from the Low German or Dutch word "smuk", which means "neat" or "trim", and was initially used to describe someone who is neat or tidy in their appearance or manner, but later took on a negative connotation to describe someone who is excessively self-satisfied or complacent.
Example Uses
- He had a smug expression on his face after winning the award, which made his colleagues feel annoyed.
- She felt smug about her decision to invest in the company, which had just announced a significant profit increase.
- The smug attitude of the salesman made it difficult for the customer to take him seriously.
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
humble
modest
unassuming
lowly
meek
self-effacing
unpretentious
straightforward
down-to-earth
simple
unostentatious
unpretending
honest
sincere
genuine
unaffected
natural
spontaneous
open
receptive
willing
eager
enthusiastic