smarty-pants 1 of 2

Definition of smarty-pantsnext

smarty-pants

2 of 2

plural noun

as in smarty
a person who likes to show off in a clever but annoying way I don't need to hear from some smarty-pants second-guesser that the theme for the party is all wrong

Synonyms & Similar Words

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of smarty-pants
Plural noun
Contact lenses came into common use only in the mid-20th century, but all-time smarty-pants Leonardo da Vinci had conceptualized them as early as 1508. — Kevin Brasler, Washington Post, 3 Sep. 2026 Rolling off the bed in a silicon sleep cocoon, Grace gradually evolves from a wriggling larval stage into a fully upright, walking and talking smarty-pants. — Amy Nicholson, Los Angeles Times, 18 Mar. 2026 Eventually, the game builds to its own metafictional deconstruction, albeit in a way that lands as an emotional gut punch rather than smarty-pants twist. — Lewis Gordon, Vulture, 3 Dec. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for smarty-pants
Adjective
  • Dress it up with a skirt or trousers for holiday celebrations, date nights, and other special occasions, or team it with leggings for a comfy yet cute outfit to lounge in.
    — Clara McMahon, PEOPLE, 25 Sep. 2026
  • The rubber sole gives these slim sneakers enhanced traction and a sporty look that’s cute paired with joggers or leggings.
    — Cheryl Wagemann, InStyle, 25 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • New partnerships with Walmart , Best Buy , Gap and Shopify will expand what Muse can do autonomously, while new smart glasses, virtual-reality glasses and an experimental Muse Charm will give consumers more ways to interact with it.
    — Alexa LoMonaco, CNBC, 26 Sep. 2026
  • Rather than relying on static plans, foresight enables continuous learning, adaptation and smarter investments in impact.
    — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 25 Sep. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Smarty-pants.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/smarty-pants. Accessed 28 Sep. 2026.

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