Langimage
English

smugness

|smug-ness|

C1

/ˈsmʌɡnəs/

(smug)

self-satisfied

Base FormComparativeSuperlative
smugsmuggersmuggest
Etymology
Etymology Information

'smugness' originates from the adjective 'smug', which comes from the Low German word 'smuk', meaning 'neat' or 'trim'.

Historical Evolution

'smug' evolved from the Middle Low German word 'smuk', which meant 'neat' or 'trim', and eventually became the modern English word 'smug'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, 'smug' meant 'neat' or 'trim', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'self-satisfied'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the quality of being excessively self-satisfied or complacent.

His smugness was evident when he talked about his achievements.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/02/04 04:06