saucy

[saw-see]

adjective

saucier, sauciest 

1. impertinent; insolent.

   a saucy remark; a saucy child.

   Synonyms: brazen, fresh, impudent, rude

2. pert; boldly smart.

   a saucy little hat for Easter.

   Synonyms: jaunty

saucy

/ ˈsɔːsɪ /

adjective

1. impertinent

2. pert; jaunty

   a saucy hat

Other Word Forms

• saucily adverb
• sauciness noun
• oversaucy adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of saucy¹

First recorded in 1500–10; sauce + -y ¹

Example Sentences

It consists of two layers of moist sponge cake smothered in custard filling and whipped cream that’s then topped with a glorious spread of saucy strawberries and dollops of extra whipped cream.

From Salon

After graduating in 2011, he debuted the Ooo-We! sauce, a “sweet, spicy, saucy glaze” that he said pairs well with everything from eggs to pork tenderloin.

From Los Angeles Times

In the media, she was painted as a "brazen hussy", "one of those saucy females who like to keep a male on a string".

From BBC

Lola Young, “Messy” From the nation — not to mention the performing arts academy — that brought you “Rehab” comes another instant classic of saucy throwback soul.

From Los Angeles Times

Tofu is a truly versatile protein, making it equally capable of being a crispy, saucy centerpiece or a subtle side.

From Salon

Related Words

• brash 
• cheeky 
• flippant 
• rude