smack of, smack(2)

3. VERB

If one thing smacks of another thing that you consider bad, it reminds you of it or is like it.

• The engineers' union was unhappy with the motion, saying it smacked of racism.

... cobuild

smack(2) :

n.

1(a). A distinctive flavor or taste. 1(b). A suggestion or trace.

2. A small amount; a smattering.

intr.v.

1. To have a distinctive flavor or taste. Used with of.

2. To give an indication; be suggestive. Often used with of:

• "an agenda that does not smack of compromise" (Time).