smarm

noun

ˈsmärm How to pronounce smarm (audio)
Synonyms of smarmnext
: smarmy language or behavior

Examples of smarm in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Other moviegoers adored his campy but somehow restrained mania as the butler in Clue, or delighted in his nasty smarm as the concierge in Home Alone 2. — Tom Nichols, The Atlantic, 26 Aug. 2026 There is also a stash of BuzzBallz ready-to-drink cocktails for trivia winners, but Misraje and his cast do not deliver their performances with smirks or smarm. — Los Angeles Times, 22 June 2026 To no one’s surprise, Bonnie is immediately transfixed by her Lilypad (voiced by Greta Lee, whose arrogant smarm effectively threads the needle between Maya Hawke’s Anxiety and Regina George’s everything else). — David Ehrlich, IndieWire, 16 June 2026 Jon Hamm starts off voicing Mayor Jerry with two-faced smarm, but his performance acquires layers. — Jordan Moreau, Variety, 28 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for smarm

Word History

Etymology

back-formation from smarmy

First Known Use

1937, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of smarm was in 1937

Rhymes for smarm

See All Rhymes for smarm

Browse Nearby Words

smaragdite
smarm
smarmy
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Smarm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/smarm. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for smarm

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