Arrogance: meaning, definitions and examples

😒

Add to dictionary

arrogance

[ˈær.ə.ɡəns ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in behavior

The quality of being arrogant; the display of superior, self-important or overbearing behavior.

Synonyms

conceit, haughtiness, pride, vanity.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
arrogance	Arrogance is usually used to describe someone who has an excessive sense of their own importance, often looking down on others. It carries a negative connotation. His arrogance made him unpopular among his colleagues She was criticized for her arrogance after making dismissive comments
haughtiness	Haughtiness refers to an attitude of superiority and disdain towards others. It is used to describe someone who acts in a condescending manner. This term also has a negative vibe. Her haughtiness made it difficult for her to make friends He walked into the room with an air of haughtiness that put everyone off
pride	Pride can be positive or negative depending on the context. It often means a sense of satisfaction derived from one's own achievements or those of others close to oneself. However, it can also refer to an exaggerated sense of self-worth leading to arrogance. She felt a great sense of pride when her son graduated with honors His pride prevented him from asking for help even when he needed it
conceit	Conceit defines a person's excessively high opinion of their own worth or ability, often leading to an overestimation of their talents. It has a negative tone as well. His conceit was evident when he claimed to be the best player on the team without any doubt The author's conceit is apparent in the way she writes about her own work
vanity	Vanity implies an excessive belief in one's own attractiveness or abilities. It has a negative connotation and often relates to concerns about physical appearance. Her vanity was evident in the way she constantly checked her reflection in the mirror His vanity made him susceptible to flattery and insincerity

Examples of usage

Her arrogance made it difficult for others to work with her.
His arrogance often led to conflicts with his colleagues.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

in attitude

An attitude of superiority manifested in an overbearing manner or presumptuous claims.

Synonyms

hubris, imperiousness, pomposity, presumption.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
arrogance	Arrogance implies an overbearing pride and a sense of superiority. It is often considered negative and used to describe someone who thinks they are better than others. His arrogance made him many enemies at work She was known for her arrogance, never listening to others' opinions
hubris	Hubris is a specific type of arrogance, often used in literature and historical contexts. It usually means excessive pride that leads to downfall or negative consequences. The king's hubris led to his eventual defeat In many Greek tragedies, the protagonist's hubris brings about their tragic end
presumption	Presumption refers to overstepping boundaries or making assumptions about things and people without proper authority. It can be considered rude or inappropriate. Her presumption that she could take over the project offended her team He was punished for his presumption in questioning the manager's decisions
imperiousness	Imperiousness suggests a commanding presence and a high-handed attitude. It is typically used to describe someone who is domineering and expects obedience from others. Her imperiousness alienated her colleagues He spoke with an air of imperiousness, as if no one could challenge him
pomposity	Pomposity is often associated with a self-important attitude and using fancy language to impress others. It is usually seen as humorous or mocking in context. His pomposity made him the subject of many jokes The speech was full of pomposity, lacking any real substance

Examples of usage

His arrogance was evident in the way he spoke to the staff.
She mistook his confidence for arrogance.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'arrogare', meaning 'to claim for oneself', showing an early connection to self-importance.
It appeared in the English language around the late 14th century, initially describing those who are presumptuous.
Over time, it has taken on a more negative connotation, indicating a disregard for others' feelings.

Psychology

High levels of this trait can be a defense mechanism, often masking insecurity or low self-esteem.
Researchers have found that people displaying this often believe their views and experiences are superior to others.
It can hinder effective communication and relationships, as it creates barriers to understanding and collaboration.

Cultural Perspectives

In many cultures, this characteristic is frowned upon, with humility being a valued trait instead.
In some societies, there is a saying that 'pride comes before a fall,' serving as a warning against overconfidence.
Literature and folklore often depict characters with this trait as villains or antagonsists, illustrating the social view against such behavior.

Pop Culture

Movies often showcase characters exhibiting this trait, leading to their downfall, as it highlights the dangers of being too self-assured.
Famous personalities in history, like dictators, are often described as embodying this, leading to their inability to understand others' perspectives.
Social media platforms can amplify this behavior, as some individuals may curate their lives to appear better than others, often leaving behind genuine connections.

Literature

Classic literature often features protagonists who overcome this trait to emerge wiser and more compassionate.
In Shakespeare's plays, characters with this frequently meet tragic ends, illustrating the pitfalls of such an attitude.
Modern novels often explore the theme of this trait in characters, prompting reflections on identity and self-worth.

Translations

Translations of the word "arrogance" in other languages:

🇵🇹 arrogância

🇮🇳 अहंकार

🇩🇪 Arroganz

🇮🇩 kesombongan

🇺🇦 зарозумілість

🇵🇱 arogancja

🇯🇵 傲慢

🇫🇷 arrogance

🇪🇸 arrogancia

🇹🇷 kibir

🇰🇷 거만

🇸🇦 غرور

🇨🇿 arogance

🇸🇰 arogancia

🇨🇳 傲慢

🇸🇮 aroganca

🇮🇸 dramb

🇰🇿 тәкаппарлық

🇬🇪 ზედმეტობა

🇦🇿 təkəbbür

🇲🇽 arrogancia

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,250, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

...
12247 kilowatt
12248 grind
12249 affliction
12250 arrogance
12251 grate
12252 dynamical
12253 formative
...