excessive and insincere flattery, to behave in an excessively flattering or ingratiating way

smarm offensive, smarm up, smarm factor

Formal and Informal Expressions of smarm

In different contexts, you can replace 'smarm' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'flattery, ingratiation' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'sucking up, brown-nosing' is a commonplace synonym.

smarm: Explore its Definition & Usage

smarm Definition

1excessive and insincere flattery
2to behave in an excessively flattering or ingratiating way

Using smarm: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "smarm" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
I can't stand his smarmy attitude.
Example
He smarmed his way into the CEO's good graces.
Example
The politician's smarm was obvious to everyone in the room.

smarm Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for smarm

Antonyms for smarm

Phrases with smarm

smarm offensive
a style of behavior characterized by excessive politeness, insincerity, and a lack of respect for others
Example
His smarm offensive was not appreciated by anyone in the office.
smarm up
to try to win someone's favor through excessive flattery or ingratiating behavior
Example
He's always trying to smarm up to the boss to get ahead.
smarm factor
the degree to which someone is perceived as excessively flattering or insincere
Example
The candidate's smarm factor was off the charts during the debate.

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Summary: smarm in Brief

'Smarm' [smɑːm] refers to excessive and insincere flattery, often used to gain favor or manipulate others. It can also be used as a verb, meaning to behave in an excessively flattering or ingratiating way. Examples include 'I can't stand his smarmy attitude' and 'He smarmed his way into the CEO's good graces.' Phrases like 'smarm offensive' and 'smarm up' further illustrate the concept.