smarmy

Etymology

smarm + -y Apparently coined by "B.R.L., of Brighton" with sense "saying treacly things which do not sound genuine" in a competition for neologisms in The Academy (London) published on 14 January 1899.

adj

  1. Falsely earnest, smug, ingratiating, or pious.
    a smarmy salesman with a big smile
    Starring a smarmy dog and scores of hapless flying wildfowl, Duck Hunt was the game that introduced many to the joys of the NES Zapper lightgun. 2019, “Ultimate Guide: Duck Hunt”, in Darran Jones, editor, 100 Games to Play Before You Die: Nintendo Consoles Edition (Retro Gamer), 3rd edition, Future, page 43
  2. (rare, dated) unctuous, greasy, as hair from pomade
    He looked faintly loutish, with smarmy hair and a hint of a moustache. 1985, Lynn Pan, Into China's Heart: An Emigré's Journey Along the Yellow River, page 200
    I pulled on my smarmy t-shirt and my ragged jeans and dragged myself to report to my supervisor. 2002 October, Austin Branstetter, "My day as a Carnie" Top of the Hill (Montgomery Bell Academy) Vol.8 No.1 p.4

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