SMUGLY

Pronunciation (US):

(GB):

IPA (US):

 Dictionary entry overview: What does smugly mean? 

• SMUGLY (adverb)
  The adverb SMUGLY has 1 sense:

1. in a smug manner

  Familiarity information: SMUGLY used as an adverb is very rare.

 Dictionary entry details 

• SMUGLY (adverb)

Sense 1

Meaning:

In a smug manner

Context example:

the bureaucrats explained smugly that the facts provided by their own experts show no cause for concern

Pertainym:

smug (marked by excessive complacency or self-satisfaction)

 Context examples 

On the instant those at the table were keyed up and expectant, the servant was smugly pleased, and he was wallowing in mortification.

(Martin Eden, by Jack London)

The cook drew himself up in a smugly humble fashion, a deprecating smirk on his face.

(The Sea-Wolf, by Jack London)

I really don't object to platitudes, he told Ruth later; but what worries me into nervousness is the pompous, smugly complacent, superior certitude with which they are uttered and the time taken to do it.

(Martin Eden, by Jack London)