smarmy

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In addition, the artist comes off as smarmy and contentious at times, belying his “holy man” persona and populist vibe.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 18, 2025

“Whatever I do, I do for America,” he intones with smarmy conviction.

From Salon • Nov. 10, 2024

It’s a tough assignment for a self-described wimp who ceaselessly cites his own shortcomings: bad grades, a flabby torso, a smarmy personality.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 20, 2023

So why do I call this calming music “avant-garde jazz” and not the smarmy candy known as “smooth jazz”? Simply: smooth jazz is a category.

From New York Times • Jul. 5, 2023

I'd shaken him, and it took him a second to find that smarmy smile, but he found it.

From "Tradition" by Brendan Kiely