smooth operator

American  

[smooth op-uh-rey-ter] / ˈsmuð ˈɒp əˌreɪ tər /

noun

1. a person who achieves social success or manipulates others through a calm, charming, and persuasive manner.

   I never know if he’s genuine or just playing me—he's a slick talker and smooth operator who gets what he wants.

2. someone who performs a task with great skill and grace.

   This lawyer is highly recommended as a smooth operator—astute, personable, and committed to her clients' interests.

3. something, such as a machine, computer program, etc., that is easy to use and runs flawlessly.

   Both engines are smooth operators, but the EX version of the car brings a little more pep to passing.

4. a food or drink with a fine or mellow flavor, creamy texture, etc..

   Our house ale is a smooth operator with robust flavors of molasses, caramel, and roasted malts.

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Etymology

Origin of smooth operator

First recorded in 1895–1900

Example Sentences

We've heard from fans monitoring flights from Sydney, one bloke is cycling from Glasgow, while another smooth operator has arranged his best pal's stag weekend to be in Dusseldorf on the opening weekend.

From BBC • Oct. 15, 2023

Morales is such a smooth operator one might wish he played Ethan Hunt because Tom Cruise looks weary in the role.

From Salon • Jul. 12, 2023

John May from London is a rough diamond and smooth operator who doesn’t suffer fools: “Once bitten, twice bite, that’s my motto.”

From Washington Post • Jan. 27, 2023

Moments into “Days of Being Wild,” the second feature from the Hong Kong director Wong Kar-wai, a smooth operator flirts with a woman working at a concession stand.

From New York Times • Nov. 26, 2020

Russia - a smooth operator - chose to side with France and Germany, at least temporarily.

From The Belgian Curtain Europe after Communism by Vaknin, Samuel

Related Words

• seducer