smarm

Noun, Verb (transitive)

WORDNET DICTIONARY

smarm(n = noun.communication) fulsomeness, unction - excessive but superficial compliments given with affected charm;

is a kind of compliment

Derived form adjective smarmy₁

smarm, v.tr. colloq.
1 (often foll. by down) smooth, plaster down (hair etc.) usu. with cream or oil.
2 flatter fulsomely.

Etymology

orig. dial. (also smalm), of uncert. orig.