Find Antonyms

smug Antonyms

Opposite of smug

Because the opposite of smug shifts with each meaning, the 10 antonyms and opposite words below are separated across 2 exact definitions and ranked by contrast strength.
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• adjective (Context 1)

Having or showing an excessive pride in oneself or one's achievements; irritatingly self-satisfied.

Usage Example

"He had a humble smile on his face after winning the debate."

Strongest
humble
modest
unassuming
Strong
diffident
self-effacing
insecure

• adjective (Context 2)

(archaic) Trim, neat, or spruce in appearance.

Usage Example

"The merchant stepped out of his shop looking clean and slovenly in his newly pressed coat."

Strongest
slovenly
untidy
Strong
unkempt
disheveled

Similar words to smug

Words similar to smug shift depending on context. Common synonyms include:

self-satisfied
complacent
spruce
trim
neat
dapper
conceited
self-righteous
See all synonyms of smug

• Nearby Words

smudge
smudgeless
smudgy
smug
smuggle
smugly
smugness

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Antonyms for Smug. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/antonyms/smug
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