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Definitions

smart aleck

[smahrt al-ik] / ˈsmɑrt ˌæl ɪk /
NOUN
person making wise remarks
Synonyms


smart-aleck
NOUN
wise guy
Synonyms


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.

He’s a pint-sized smart aleck who cares deeply for Dunk.

From Salon • Jan. 17, 2026

In real life, however, Mr. Jaffee was the opposite of a smart aleck: a genteel, unassuming man whose in-person humor was delivered with a wink, not a cudgel.

From New York Times • Apr. 10, 2023

Q. Stuck in the middle: My father has always been a smart aleck who loves practical jokes and discreetly needling people.

From Slate • Jul. 6, 2021

The puppet replied, “Eddie, how long have you been on the air?” — leading Sullivan to retort, “Topo, nobody likes a smart aleck mouse.”

From Washington Post • Nov. 10, 2019

“You didn’t used to be smart aleck until you started hanging around with my son.”

From "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" by Benjamin Alire Saenz




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