: in a sage or wise manner The soldiers nodded sagely to each other.

What is sagely used for?

with a knowing or thoughtful expression; in a way that suggests careful reflection: By way of response, my father only puffed on his pipe and nodded sagely. in a wise or judicious way; insightfully: As someone has sagely pointed out, today’s idiot will be tomorrow’s beacon of truth.

What does smarting someone mean?

to hurt with a sharp pain: My eyes were smarting from the onions. to feel upset and angry because of failure or criticism: The police are still smarting from their failure to prevent the robbery. Pain & painful.