SMARK Meaning and
Definition
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Smark is a term primarily used in the world of professional wrestling to refer to a fan who possesses both knowledge of the industry's workings and the ability to discern the behind-the-scenes aspects of the wrestling business. Derived from the combination of the words "smart" and "mark," a smark is seen as someone who not only appreciates the athleticism and entertainment value of wrestling but also understands the intricate backstage politics, wrestling jargon, and industry trends.
A smark is typically characterized by their ability to recognize scripted storylines, predetermined outcomes, and the real-life interactions that shape the wrestling product. They often engage in discussions and debates on online forums, social media platforms, and fan communities, dissecting storylines, predicting future events, and speculating on potential surprises. Smarks are known for their critical thinking and analytical approach, often scrutinizing the storytelling, match quality, and character development within wrestling promotions.
While smarks are generally more informed than casual fans, they sometimes exhibit a sense of superiority or elitism due to their perceived knowledge, which can lead to condescension towards fans who do not possess the same level of insight. However, it is important to note that not all knowledgeable wrestling fans are considered smarks, as the term also carries implications of cynicism and skepticism towards the product as a result of the detailed understanding of the inner workings of the industry.
Overall, a smark is someone who has a deep understanding of the wrestling world beyond what is presented on-screen, creating a sense of insider knowledge and contributing to the ongoing discussions and analysis of the industry.
Etymology of SMARK
The term "smark" is a portmanteau of the words "smart" and "mark" used in professional wrestling subculture.
The term "mark" originated in carnival and circus slang, referring to an unsuspecting audience member who believed the staged performances were real. Over time, it came to be used in wrestling to describe a passionate fan who becomes fully immersed in the world of wrestling and believes the storylines and characters are genuine.
The addition of "smart" to "mark" created the term "smark", which emerged in the 1990s to describe fans who are knowledgeable about the behind-the-scenes aspects of professional wrestling. These fans are aware of the scripted nature of the performances, recognize the use of storytelling techniques, and often discuss and analyze the business and the performers.
