Haughtily Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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haughtily
[ˈhɔːtɪli ]
Definitions
Context #1 | Adverb
in a proud and arrogant manner
Behaving haughtily towards others can often lead to isolation and resentment.
Synonyms
arrogantly, proudly, snobbishly.
Examples of usage
- She haughtily turned her nose up at the humble offering.
- He haughtily refused to listen to any opinions other than his own.
- The princess walked haughtily through the crowd, ignoring everyone around her.
Context #2 | Adjective
having or showing an attitude of superiority and contempt for people or things perceived to be inferior
Her haughty demeanor made it difficult for others to approach her.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He gave her a haughty look, as if she was beneath him.
- The haughty attitude of the aristocrat alienated many of his peers.
- The manager's haughty behavior towards his subordinates created a toxic work environment.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- In many classic novels, characters exhibit haughtily behavior, highlighting the tension between social classes, such as in 'Pride and Prejudice'.
- The term frequently appears in poetry to describe characters that embody arrogance or disdain, enriching the emotional landscape of the narrative.
Psychology
- Haughtiness can be associated with narcissism, where individuals see themselves as intrinsically superior, affecting their relationships with others.
- Psychologists note that haughtily behavior often stems from insecurity, where individuals put on a facade of arrogance to mask their own vulnerabilities.
Pop Culture
- Many villains in films are portrayed as haughtily, with exaggerated gestures to emphasize their disdain for others, like Maleficent or Jafar.
- Reality TV shows often highlight haughty personalities to create drama, leading to memorable quotes and catchphrases that audiences remember.
Social Dynamics
- In social settings, individuals who act haughtily may isolate themselves, as others often feel judged or unwelcomed by their arrogance.
- Haughtily behavior can lead to misunderstandings in communication, as it may be perceived as a lack of empathy or condescension.
Origin of 'haughtily'
Main points about word origin
- Derived from the Old French word 'haut', meaning high, which evolved into the English sense of being overly proud or arrogant.
- The word has been used in English since the 14th century, indicating an attitude of superiority that has been recognized for centuries.
The word 'haughtily' originates from the Middle English word 'haught', meaning 'high in one's own estimation'. It has evolved over time to encompass the idea of arrogance and superiority. The use of 'haughtily' in literature and everyday language reflects a societal fascination with pride and power dynamics.