Haughtiness: meaning, definitions and examples

Haughtiness is often used to describe a demeanor that is disdainful or condescending. It conveys a sense of superiority over others, usually visible in someone’s behavior or attitude.

• Her haughtiness was apparent as she looked down on everyone at the party.
• The prince’s haughtiness made him unpopular among the common folk.

Arrogance refers to an overbearing sense of one's own importance. It's often used in situations where someone is undeservedly confident and dismissive of others.

• His arrogance made it difficult for anyone to work with him.
• The manager’s arrogance caused a lot of tension in the team.

Pride can be either positive or negative, depending on the context. It often refers to a feeling of self-respect or accomplishment, but can also describe an inflated sense of one's own importance.

• She felt immense pride in her daughter's achievements.
• His unwavering pride often led to stubbornness during negotiations.

Snobbery is the behavior or attitude of someone who looks down on others they consider to be of a lower social class or lacking in specific qualities. It often implies a superficial sense of superiority.

• Her snobbery was evident when she refused to speak with anyone who didn’t attend an elite school.
• The club's atmosphere was tainted by a pervasive sense of snobbery.

Conceit highlights a person's excessive pride in themselves, particularly regarding their abilities or appearance. It usually suggests delusion or an unwarranted sense of superiority.

• Her conceit was evident in the way she constantly praised her own talents.
• He could hardly contain his conceit when he won the award.