Pronunciation: [lˈʊkɪŋ smˈʌɡ] (IPA) 
The phrase "looking smug" is spelled out as /ˈlʊkɪŋ/ /smʌɡ/ in the IPA phonetic transcription. The word "looking" is pronounced as "luh-king" using a short "u" sound and stress on the first syllable. On the other hand, "smug" is pronounced as "smuhg" using a short "u" sound and stress on the second syllable. The phrase "looking smug" is used to describe a person's appearance of being self-satisfied, arrogant or complacent.
"Looking smug" is a phrase used to describe a particular facial expression or body language that conveys a sense of self-satisfaction or excessive confidence. It refers to the way someone appears when they are feeling pleased with themselves or their accomplishments, often accompanied by a slight, self-satisfied smile or an arrogant demeanor.
When someone is perceived as looking smug, they usually exude an air of superiority or triumph, believing they have achieved success or bested others in some way. This expression typically involves an uplifted chin, raised eyebrows, and a slight cocking of the head. It can also manifest through a half-smile or a barely suppressed smirk that suggests a sense of superiority.
The term "smug" is associated with a feeling of self-importance or aloofness. People who look smug often give off an impression of being overly pleased with themselves, displaying a lack of modesty or humility. Their body language and facial expressions indicate that they take pride in their accomplishments, knowledge, or personal superiority, consciously or unconsciously projecting a sense of satisfaction and confidence.
Overall, "looking smug" captures the idea of someone appearing arrogant or complacent, wearing an expression that suggests they believe they have outsmarted or outdone others, creating an aura of conceit.
The etymology of the phrase "looking smug" can be understood by examining the origins of the individual words involved.
1. Looking: The word "looking" derives from the Old English word "locian", which means "to see" or "to look". Over time, different variations and conjugations led to its current form. In this context, "looking" refers to the act of observing or gazing at something.
2. Smug: The word "smug" originated from the Low German term "smuk", meaning "neat" or "trim". It later appeared in Old English as "smugan" with a similar sense. Eventually, it evolved to mean "self-satisfied" or "having excessive pride in oneself". Thus, "smug" today refers to someone displaying a certain complacent or self-satisfied expression or demeanor.
