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Gloat Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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gloat

[ษกloสŠt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

showing off

To gloat means to take great pleasure in one's own success or in someone else's failure, often in a smug or spiteful way. It typically implies a sense of triumph over another person's misfortune.

Synonyms

boast, crow, exult, revel.

Examples of usage

  • He couldn't help but gloat over his victory.
  • She gloat about her promotion in front of her colleagues.
  • They gloat whenever their rivals lose.
  • It's rude to gloat after winning a game.
Context #2 | Verb

malicious delight

To gloat can also mean to dwell on one's own happiness in a way that can be perceived as cruel or insensitive to others. This usage often conveys a sense of vindictiveness or schadenfreude.

Synonyms

delight, smirk, sneer, taunt.

Examples of usage

  • He gloat about his friend's failures.
  • She couldn't resist gloating after they lost the competition.
  • They gloat while others suffer.
  • Gloating over someone else's mistake is unkind.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'gloat'

The word 'gloat' originates from the early 16th century, derived from the Middle English word 'gloten,' which means to stare or to gawk. The term is believed to have connections with the Old Norse 'glotta,' meaning to grin or to smirk, which reflects the idea of showing pleasure in a somewhat ostentatious manner. Originally, it entailed a sense of watching or admiring something in a way that may not have been entirely positive. Over time, 'gloat' evolved to specifically denote the act of reveling in another's misfortune or oneโ€™s own success, often with a sense of arrogance. The modern connotation of the word carries a negative aspect, indicating not just joy but a certain malicious enjoyment, often at another's expense.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,604 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.