WordReference Random House Learner's Dictionary of American English © 2026
ˈwise ˌguy, n. [countable] Informal.
WordReference Random House Unabridged Dictionary of American English © 2026- Informal Termsa person who pretends to know more than he or she does;
smart aleck.
wise′ guy′,
wise′-guy′, adj.
- Informal Termsa cocksure, conceited, and often insolent person;
smart aleck:He has a reputation for being a wise guy.Also called wiseacre.
- 1895–1900, American.
'wise guy' also found in these entries (note: many are not synonyms or translations):