What does smartarse mean?
Smartarse is a noun that refers to a person who gives the impression of being clever or knowledgeable, often in a way that is perceived as arrogant or annoying. This term is typically used in an informal or colloquial context, and is often used to express annoyance or frustration with someone who is perceived as arrogant or annoying. The term is not typically used in formal writing or in professional settings, and is generally considered to be a somewhat derogatory term. Despite this, it is a widely recognized and commonly used term in many English-speaking countries. The term is often used to describe someone who is perceived as trying to show off their knowledge or intelligence, often in a way that is perceived as annoying or arrogant. This can include people who are perceived as being overly confident or who are perceived as trying to dominate conversations or situations.
A person who gives the impression of being clever or knowledgeable, often in a way that is perceived as arrogant or annoying.
"He's such a smartarse, always trying to show off his knowledge of obscure facts."
Smartarse is typically used in an informal or colloquial context, and is often used to express annoyance or frustration with someone who is perceived as arrogant or annoying.
To speak or act in a way that is perceived as arrogant or annoying, often in an attempt to show off one's knowledge or intelligence.
"He's always smartarsing, trying to show off his knowledge of obscure facts."
Smartarse is typically used in an informal or colloquial context, and is often used to express annoyance or frustration with someone who is perceived as arrogant or annoying.
The plural form of smartarse is typically used to describe multiple people who are perceived as being arrogant or annoying.
"The smartarses in the room always have to be the ones to correct everyone else."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of smartarse
The term smartarse is believed to have originated in the mid-20th century in the UK, where it was used to describe someone who was perceived as being clever or knowledgeable in a way that was perceived as arrogant or annoying. The term is thought to have been derived from the phrase 'smart arse', which was used to describe someone who was perceived as being clever or knowledgeable, but also as being somewhat arrogant or annoying.
How smartarse is actually used
Smartarse is typically used in an informal or colloquial context, and is often used to express annoyance or frustration with someone who is perceived as arrogant or annoying. It is not typically used in formal writing or in professional settings.