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.
At its worst, the earnestness curdles into self-congratulatory smarm. — Inkoo Kang, The New Yorker, 29 June 2024 Jon Hamm starts off voicing Mayor Jerry with two-faced smarm, but his performance acquires layers. — Jordan Moreau, Variety, 28 May 2026 Even Saturday Night Live’s reigning king of smarm, Colin Jost, playing a henpecked husband, got some chuckles out of me. — David Sims, The Atlantic, 5 June 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 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 7 Jul. 2026.

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