Pronunciation: [wˈa͡ɪz ɡˈa͡ɪ] (IPA) 
The spelling of the term "wise guy" is phonetically transcribed as /wʌɪzɡaɪ/. The first syllable is pronounced as "wai" with a short "a" vowel sound, followed by "zg" with a voiced "z" and voiceless "g". The final syllable is pronounced as "gai" with a long "a" vowel sound. "Wise guy" is a term used to describe someone who is sarcastic or witty in a way that can be irritating to others.
A "wise guy" is a colloquial term commonly used to describe an individual who portrays themselves as clever, shrewd, or cunning, often to the point of being sarcastic or insolent. This term is primarily employed to characterize a person's behavior, attitude, or demeanor rather than an intellectual attribute. Often associated with skepticism or defiance towards authority figures, a wise guy often attempts to display wit or intelligence by making sharp, and at times, humorous comments or retorts.
It can also refer to a member of organized crime, typically associated with the Italian-American Mafia. Within this context, it indicates someone who is involved in illicit activities, often engaging in extortion, racketeering, or violent behavior to protect their interests or uphold their reputation.
In a broader sense, a wise guy may be someone who excessively boasts about their knowledge or expertise in a particular field, sometimes bordering on arrogance. This could be in areas such as sports, politics, or general trivia, where they often contribute unsolicited opinions or arguments with a self-assured and sometimes condescending demeanor.
Overall, the term "wise guy" often conveys a mixture of intelligence, audacity, and insolence, either as a lighthearted epithet or as a reference to individuals involved in criminal undertakings.
The term "wise guy" comes from the early 19th century American English slang. It is believed to have originated from Italian-American Mafia slang. The word "wise" in this context does not refer to intelligence or knowledge but rather to someone being slick, sly, or cunning. It is similar to the Italian word "guizzo", which means a clever or sharp person. Over time, "wise guy" transitioned into a term used to describe someone who is sarcastic, disrespectful, or mocking, often accompanied by a certain level of bravado or cockiness.
