sassy
UK: ˈsæsi | US: ˈsæsi
adj. bold, lively, and spirited in a cheeky or slightly disrespectful way
adj. stylish or confident in a bold, assertive manner
sassy = sass<impudence> + y<adjective suffix>
- sass (from early 19th-century American English, originally meaning "impudence" or "backtalk," possibly derived from "sauce" in its figurative sense of "cheekiness")
- y (a common English suffix forming adjectives, indicating "having the quality of")
Etymology Origin:
The word "sassy" emerged in the early 19th century, blending "sass" (a colloquial term for cheeky boldness) with the adjectival suffix "-y." Its roots trace back to "sauce," which historically carried connotations of impertinence (e.g., "being saucy"). Over time, "sassy" evolved to describe a lively, confident attitude, often with a playful or slightly defiant edge.
She gave a sassy reply that left everyone laughing.
The toddler’s sassy remarks surprised her parents.
He wore a sassy hat that turned heads at the party.
Her sassy confidence made her stand out in the interview.
The comedian’s sassy humor delighted the audience.