Word Pronunciation & Dictionary

smooth operator

Word Rarity Uncommon

Frequency: Zipf frequency 4.06 in modern English

Syllables: smooth -op-er-a-tor
IPA

21

Scrabble Score

14

Letters

5

Syllables

9

Unique Chars

Meaning

noun

A person who accomplishes tasks with efficiency and grace, especially one with verbal skills who is persuasive in interpersonal relationships, negotiation, etc.

noun

A skillful, manipulative person, con artist, or clever scoundrel.

Example Sentences

"In Washington he has earned a reputation as a smooth operator who can handle lobbyists, bureaucrats and even Congressmen, with a cool head."
"Alexander lit up Connecticut for 34 points in a Big East quarterfinal win last week. He is a smooth operator who can score in a variety of ways."
"He plays the hospital administrator, a fast-talking smooth operator who cons patients and doctors alike."
"His eyes are like angels', his heart is cold / No need to ask / He's a smooth operator"

Inflected Forms

smooth operators (plural)

Questions

What does smooth operator mean?: A person who accomplishes tasks with efficiency and grace, especially one with verbal skills who is persuasive in interpersonal relationships, negotiation, etc.

How to pronounce smooth operator

Open the pronunciation page — Open the Speakur entry for “smooth operator”.
Read the phonetic spelling — Read the IPA spelling () so you know which sounds to aim for.
Play the audio — Click Play to hear reference audio for “smooth operator”.
Repeat and practice — Say “smooth operator” aloud, matching stress and vowels until it feels natural.