smart-ass
1 of 2noun/ˈsmɑrtˌæs/
Forms:smart-asses
1
a person who is annoying because they constantly try to show off how clever or knowledgeable they are
The idiom "smart ass" has its origins in American English during the mid-20th century. It is derived from the term "smart aleck," which emerged in the 19th century as a way to describe someone who is overly clever or sarcastic. The term "smart ass" is used to refer to someone who consistently displays intelligence or knowledge in a way that is perceived as annoying, disrespectful, or obnoxious. It is typically used in informal contexts to describe individuals who make condescending or snarky remarks, often with the intention of showing off their intelligence or belittling others.
- Enough with the smart-ass remarks.Can't you just have a normal conversation without trying to be a jerk?
- Ignore Tyler, he's just being a typical smart-ass to get a reaction.
- My friend's little brother is such a smart-ass.He's always making rude comments trying to be funny.
- She thinks she's so clever with her smartass comments, but it's just annoying.
- Stop being such a smart-ass and answer the question properly.