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Gloating Meaning: Definition and Examples

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gloating

[ˈɡloʊtɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

expressing pleasure

Gloating refers to the act of taking great pleasure in one's own success or another's misfortune. It often conveys a sense of smugness or superiority over someone else's failure.

Synonyms

boastfulness, revelry, self-satisfaction, smugness.

Examples of usage

  • He couldn't help gloating over his opponent's loss.
  • She gloatly shared her victory on social media.
  • After winning the game, he started gloating in front of his friends.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Gloating can be a sign of low self-esteem; individuals might overcompensate by bragging about their victories.
  • It may elicit negative reactions from others, leading to social isolation or conflict because of perceived arrogance.

Literature

  • Gloating is often depicted in classic literature as a flaw, with characters facing consequences for their arrogance.
  • Fables and stories frequently teach lessons about humility in contrast to gloating, highlighting its negative impacts.

Pop Culture

  • Reality TV shows often showcase gloating as contestants celebrate their wins, which can draw both admiration and disdain from viewers.
  • In sports, players gloating after a win can sometimes lead to intense rivalries or fan disagreements.

Impact on Relationships

  • Frequent gloating can harm friendships, as it may make others feel less valued or appreciated.
  • A study found that individuals who frequently gloat are often perceived as less likable and can struggle with maintaining close relationships.

Origin of 'gloating'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Middle English 'gloten', which meant to look at someone smugly.
  • It has roots in the Old Norse word 'gloða', which means to gleam or shine, indicating a bright expression of triumph.

The word 'gloat' originated in the early 17th century, derived from the Middle English term 'glouten', which means to look slyly or with malice. The term reflects the notion of looking at something with intense satisfaction, particularly when it involves boasting or taking pleasure at the expense of others. Over time, the meaning of gloating evolved and became synonymous with expressing joy in other people's misfortunes or one's own triumphs in a way that is often deemed excessive or inappropriate. This word has maintained a somewhat negative connotation, implying that the person gloating is reveling in another's failure rather than celebrating their success humbly.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,404, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.