By Rachel Hudson • St. Dominic Regional High School

“Smart Alec”

Everyone knows at least one person who has been dubbed a “smart alec”. This phrase arose due to an English scholar who impressed people with his wide range of knowledge. His name was Alexander, probably Alexander Ross who lived in the 16th century. The modern day application of this phrase came about in the 18th century where it was used to denote someone who was not just knowledgeable, but cocky or overly clever as well.