smarm

American  

[smahrm] / smɑrm /

noun

1. behavior or speech that is smarmy.

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smarm British  

/ smɑːm /

verb

1. to flatten (the hair, etc) with cream or grease

2. to ingratiate oneself (with)

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noun

1. obsequious flattery

Etymology

Origin of smarm

First recorded in 1935–40; back formation from smarmy

Example Sentences

Oliver brings in Matthew Broderick, playing himself with exaggerated smarm, who effortlessly breezes through the patter song.

From Los Angeles Times • May 28, 2024

But it would need something more like a cordon sanitaire to protect the audience from the trickle of smarm that leaks from the play.

From New York Times • Mar. 28, 2022

This is perhaps a land speed record in both smarm and bad faith.

From Salon • Nov. 17, 2021

Maybe it’s the exhausting smarm, the squirrelly ambition, the hollow theatrics.

From Washington Post • Feb. 18, 2021

I suppose you know, Jean—I don't want to be discouraging—that you will get very little gratitude, that the people you try to help will smarm to your face and blackguard you behind your back?

From Penny Plain by Douglas, O.