adjective
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impertinent
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pert; jaunty
a saucy hat
Other Word Forms
- oversaucy adjective
- saucily adverb
- sauciness noun
Etymology
Origin of saucy
Explanation
You can use saucy to describe someone who likes to cause trouble, but usually in a playful and funny way. Saucy is also a good word for a person who really likes to flirt. In the novel Oliver Twist, the character the Artful Dodger goes to court for stealing. During his hearing, the ten-year-old screams, “I am an Englishman; where are my rights?” Saucy words from a saucy child. A saucy comment makes people gasp because it’s surprising and a little dangerous or edgy. Saucy can also describe a person who is boldly flirtatious.
Vocabulary lists containing saucy
Words from Shakespearean Insults
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Twelfth Night
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"Two Kinds" by Amy Tan
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
I think of it like a little flavor orchestra: saucy, cheesy, meaty, tangy, fresh.
From Salon • Sep. 16, 2025
Lola Young, “Messy” From the nation — not to mention the performing arts academy — that brought you “Rehab” comes another instant classic of saucy throwback soul.
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 25, 2025
Tofu is a truly versatile protein, making it equally capable of being a crispy, saucy centerpiece or a subtle side.
From Salon • May 21, 2025
“Call U Up,” a funny and brash single off his LP “Timeless,” was just saucy enough to turn heads all over the grounds.
From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 17, 2024
“I wish I could, and be done with it,” said I, trying not to be saucy.
From "Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
