smart-ass

noun

ˈsmärt-ˌas 

: smart aleck

smart-ass adjective

smart-assed

ˈsmärt-ˌast 

adjective

Examples of smart-ass in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Dudamel wins over even the smart-asses in the back by hearing and remembering, as well as embracing, everything. — Justin Davidson, Vulture, 18 Sep. 2026

Deadpool & Wolverine proves that Marvel capitalizes on a market of obnoxious, smart-ass adolescents (and adults) insatiable for sarcasm. — Armond White, National Review, 26 July 2024

In the comics, the X-Men–adjacent smart-ass and alter ego of professional assassin Wade Wilson was known for being horribly disfigured, handy with weapons, impossible to kill, and even more impossible to shut up. — David Fear, Rolling Stone, 23 July 2024

For your kindness that somehow surpasses even your coolness, for your drive, your creativity, your A+ stink-eye and your smart-ass sense of humor. — Angela Andaloro, Peoplemag, 11 Oct. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

1958, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for smart-ass

• alas
• amass
• bromegrass
• bypass
• crabgrass
• crevasse
• eelgrass
• eyeglass
• groundmass
• harass
• impasse
• jackass