Smug

usgb/smʌɡ/
adjective

Showing excessive satisfaction with oneself or one's achievements.

He had a smug look on his face after winning the competition.
Visual representation of "smug" - Showing excessive satisfaction with oneself or one's achievements

Often appears as...

  • smug look
  • smug expression

Usage tips

Disapproving

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "smug"
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Negative Nuance

Smug often implies a negative judgment about someone's self-satisfaction.

Illustration for Negative Nuance
His smug attitude after the promotion didn't win him any friends.
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Non-Verbal Cues

Smugness is frequently conveyed through non-verbal expressions, such as a smirk.

Illustration for Non-Verbal Cues
A smug grin spread across his face as he revealed the secret.
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Often Pejorative

'Smug' usually describes someone's annoying level of self-satisfaction and is rarely a compliment.

Illustration for Often Pejorative
She gave a smug reply to their concerns, not realizing she was being insensitive.
Visual representation of the word "Smug"

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