top of page
The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner
5 gold stars

4.8

SAVE 10% TODAY

Limited Time Offer!

Add 3,700 must-know words to your vocabulary.
All-in-one: dictionary, thesaurus, & workbook.

 632 pages, 147 lessons, 428 practical activities.

 Suitable for students & professionals of all ages.​​

​​​​​Amazon Best Seller:

#1 Spelling & Vocabulary.

#1 Education TOEFL & TOEIC.

#1 Slang & Idiom Reference Books.

Transform Your Vocabulary!

glib

IPA:

How to pronounce glib (audio)

Dictionary definition of glib

Speaking in a superficial or insincere way, often using smooth words or charm to deceive or mislead others.
"The salesperson's glib pitch failed to impress the potential customer."

Detailed meaning of glib

The term comes from the Middle English word "glibbe" which means "smooth-tongued" or "slippery." It implies a lack of depth or authenticity in a person's speech or actions.

A glib person is often considered to be insincere and superficial, as they are more concerned with making a good impression than with being honest or genuine. They may use charm, flattery, or clever words to manipulate or deceive others. They may also have a tendency to avoid answering difficult or sensitive questions directly, or to talk around the subject.

Being glib can be seen as a negative trait, as it implies a lack of authenticity, integrity, and honesty. It can also be seen as a sign of insincerity, superficiality, or a lack of depth. A glib person can be perceived as untrustworthy and insincere, and it can be hard for others to take them seriously.

Example sentences containing glib

1. He was criticized for his glib response to a serious question.
2. She was known for her glib attitude and lack of concern.
3. He was accused of being glib and not taking the situation seriously.
4. She was glib in her response and didn't address the concerns raised.
5. The politician's glib remarks during the debate were criticized.
6. He was glib in his apologies and didn't seem genuinely remorseful.

History and etymology of glib

The adjective 'glib' has an etymology rooted in the Old English word 'glipian,' which means 'to glide' or 'to slip away.' Over time, this term evolved to describe actions or speech that is characterized by a smooth and effortless flow, often with a superficial or insincere quality. 'Glib' etymologically conveys the idea of speaking or behaving in a way that seems to glide smoothly along the surface, lacking depth or genuine sincerity. It often involves using smooth words or charm to deceive or mislead others, making it appear as if one's words effortlessly slip past scrutiny. The etymology of 'glib' thus reflects the notion of speaking in a manner that is deceptively smooth and easy, masking underlying insincerity or superficiality.

Quiz: Find the meaning of the adjective glib:

Try Again!

Correct!

Further usage examples of glib

1. She was glib in her explanations and didn't provide any real solutions.
2. The spokesperson's glib statements did not address the real issues.
3. He was glib in his dismissal of the concerns raised.
4. She was glib in her approach to the problem and didn't take it seriously.
5. The comedian's glib jokes about the sensitive topic were not well received.
6. The public were tired of listening to glib answers from their elected representatives.
7. His glib remarks, delivered with a charming smile, concealed his true intentions, leaving people unsure of his sincerity.
8. She had a glib response to every question, effortlessly deflecting inquiries with superficial answers.
9. The glib salesman, using smooth words and flattery, swayed unsuspecting customers into making unnecessary purchases.
10. Don't be fooled by his glib charm; beneath it lies a manipulative personality.
11. His glib excuses, offered in a casual and dismissive tone, failed to convince anyone of his innocence.
12. The politician's glib promises, while appealing on the surface, lacked concrete plans for implementation.
13. She saw through his glib façade, recognizing that his charisma masked a lack of depth and authenticity.
14. Glib talk, although persuasive in the short term, can ultimately be deceptive and damaging to trust.
15. His glib comments, often intended to deflect attention from his own insecurities, only served to alienate those around him.
16. The glib presentation, heavy on style but light on substance, failed to address the audience's real concerns.
17. Beware of glib compliments that may be insincere and aimed solely at gaining favor.
18. Glib responses, designed to hide ignorance or evade responsibility, can lead to misunderstandings and mistrust.
19. The glib actor, known for effortlessly delivering lines with charisma, mastered the art of persuasion on stage.
20. Glib words alone won't solve the problem; practical action is required to bring about real change.
21. His glib explanations, lacking depth and analysis, fell flat in the face of complex issues.
22. Glib talk alone won't win trust; authenticity and transparency are essential for building lasting relationships.
23. The glib interview, characterized by rehearsed answers and evasion of tough questions, left doubts about the candidate's suitability for the position.
24. Glib excuses won't work here; we expect accountability and a genuine effort to resolve the issue.
25. Glib persuasion tactics, such as using flattery and manipulation, ultimately backfired as people grew wary of his intentions.
26. She dismissed his glib remarks, preferring honest and straightforward communication over superficial charm.

Illusion and Insincerity, Conduct and Character, Clandestine and Conniving, Duplicity and Deceit, Manipulation and Deception, Dishonesty and Concealment

artful,articulate,eloquent,facile,fluent,insincere,loquacious,plausible,suave,superficial,voluble

persuasive,slick,slippery

slick, sincere, heartfelt, genuine

eb68db_486c7957e51e44fd9948a1d3c9dbf31b.mp3

bottom of page