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
  • Style this maxi skirt with a dressy blouse, tights, and tall boots for a cute date night ensemble, or dress it down with a sweater and sneakers for more low-key days.
    Mia Huelsbeck, PEOPLE, 5 Sep. 2026
  • Everyone was amazed that, yes, this teeny tiny thing was actually a functioning camera that could take relatively good pictures, and not just a cute, decorative keychain.
    Jamie Spain, Condé Nast Traveler, 5 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • That trio combined to force Carl Rushworth into two smart saves in the first half, either side of Haaland’s goal.
    Stuart James, New York Times, 8 Sep. 2026
  • The water-resistant exterior is suited for stadiums, gyms, and concerts and the smart design folds flat with a built-in carrying strap for easy transportation.
    ABC News, ABC News, 7 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 8 Sep. 2026.

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