saucy

Adjective
US[saw-see]/ˈsɔsi/2 syllables
Synonyms: impertinentirreverentpertfreshimpudentoverboldsmartsassywise

Open English WordNet

Adjective (2)saucier, sauciest

  1. characterized by a lightly pert and exuberant quality“a certain irreverent gaiety and ease of manner”Synonyms: impertinentirreverentpertOpposite spiritlessSimilar spirited
  2. improperly forward or bold“don't be fresh with me”“impertinent of a child to lecture a grownup”“an impudent boy given to insulting strangers”“Don't get wise with me!”Synonyms: freshimpertinentimpudentoverboldsmartsassywiseOpposite backwardSimilar forward

Related words archness noun

Word of the day · Nov 7About this word
perennialadjective

What does it mean? Question 1 of today’s quiz

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Webster's Dictionary (1913)

Sau′cy adjective [Compar. Saucier; superlative Sauciest.]

Origin: From Sauce.

1. Showing impertinent boldness or pertness; transgressing the rules of decorum; treating superiors with contempt; impudent; insolent; as, a saucy fellow.

Am I not protector, saucy priest?— William Shakespeare

2. Expressive of, or characterized by, impudence; impertinent; as, a saucy eye; saucy looks.

We then have done you bold and saucy wrongs.— William Shakespeare

Synonyms: Impudent; insolent; impertinent; rude.

Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913), from GCIDE 0.54

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