Smarm refers to a form of insincere flattery or over-the-top affection that is often used to manipulate or gain favor. It is characterized by excessive charm, obsequiousness, or ingratiation, making it feel forced and untrustworthy. Often found in social or professional settings, smarm can evoke feelings of discomfort or skepticism in others.
Smarm meaning with examples
- During the corporate meeting, Carol's smarm towards the CEO was palpable; her exaggerated enthusiasm for his suggestions felt more like a performance than genuine support. Many colleagues exchanged uneasy glances, sensing the insincerity behind her compliments and overly warm demeanor.
- At the school fundraising event, the principal’s smarm was evident as he lavished praise on the attending parents. His overly sugary remarks about their contributions seemed less about gratitude and more about securing future donations, leaving the audience scratching their heads in disbelief.
- Michael’s use of smarm in his speech was intended to win approval, but it backfired spectacularly. The audience, tired of his contrived warmness, tuned him out, recognizing that his flattery was nothing more than a shallow attempt to win their affections while hiding his true intentions.
- The politician's smarm during the debate was so transparent that even his supporters felt uneasy. His overly flattering comments about his opponents contradicted his later critiques, leading many to question his authenticity and motives beyond just winning the election.
- When Emma wrote the excessively smarmy thank-you note to her boss, her attempt to curry favor was transparent. Rather than making her seem grateful, it revealed her desire for approval, prompting her colleagues to tease her about her contradictions in sincerity.
Smarm Synonyms
adulation blarney brown-nosing cajolery coaxing fawning flattery hypocrisy ingratiation insincerity obsequiousness pandering simpering slavishness soppiness sweet-talking sycophancy toadying unctuousness wheedlingSmarm Antonyms
authenticity bluntness candor directness earnestness forthrightness frankness genuineness honesty integrity modesty openness realness simplicity sincerity straightforwardness trustworthiness truthfulness unpretentiousness veritySmarm Crossword Answers
7 Letters
UNCTION
8 Letters
OILINESS FLATTERY
11 Letters
FULSOMENESS