Imperiousness Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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imperiousness

[ɪmˈpɪərɪəsnəs ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

in behavior

The quality of being domineering, arrogant, or overbearing in one's manner or behavior.

Synonyms

arrogant, domineering, overbearing.

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Word Description / Examples
imperiousness

This word typically describes a manner that is arrogant and domineering, often coming from someone with authority or who believes they have authority. It usually has a negative connotation, implying an unreasonably high opinion of oneself.

  • Her imperiousness made it difficult for her colleagues to work with her.
  • He addressed his subordinates with such imperiousness that they felt belittled.
domineering

Domineering is used to describe someone who asserts their will over others in an overbearing manner. It implies a forceful control and often disrupts collaborative or cooperative environments.

  • John's domineering personality made meetings very difficult.
  • Her domineering approach left no room for anyone else's ideas.
arrogant

Arrogant describes someone who has an exaggerated sense of their own importance and ability. This word often carries a negative connotation, suggesting a lack of humility and a dismissive attitude towards others.

  • The manager's arrogant attitude alienated many of his team members.
  • She was so arrogant that she refused to listen to anyone else's opinion.
overbearing

Overbearing indicates a manner that is arrogantly domineering. Someone who is overbearing imposes themselves in a way that overwhelms or intrudes upon others, often creating discomfort or resentment.

  • His overbearing mother constantly interfered in his personal life.
  • The supervisor's overbearing nature stifled creativity in the office.

Examples of usage

  • She couldn't stand his imperiousness any longer.
  • His imperiousness made it difficult for others to approach him.
  • Her imperiousness often rubbed people the wrong way.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In Shakespeare's plays, characters exhibiting imperiousness often face downfall, showing the dangers of overreach.
  • Novels like 'Pride and Prejudice' explore characters who may display imperiousness, particularly in social hierarchies.
  • The imperious nature of figures like Lady Macbeth signifies ambition and the desire for control.

Psychology

  • People with imperious traits may struggle with empathy, often failing to understand others' feelings.
  • Studies suggest that those who display imperiousness often have underlying insecurities despite their outward confidence.
  • Research links imperious behavior to authoritarian personality types, which can affect group dynamics.

Pop Culture

  • Villainous characters, such as those in comic books, frequently display imperiousness, asserting their power over heroes.
  • In many films, the 'imperious leader' trope serves as a warning against the abuse of power.
  • TV shows often include imperious characters who clash with others, highlighting comedy or drama derived from their overbearing nature.

Historical Context

  • Historical figures like Napoleon Bonaparte exhibited imperiousness in their leadership styles, impacting global politics.
  • The concept of imperiousness has been used to analyze colonial leaders who exercised significant control over nations.
  • Certain monarchies were viewed as imperious due to their absolute power, affecting social structures and governance.

Origin of 'imperiousness'

Main points about word origin

  • Derived from the Latin word 'imperiosus', meaning 'commanding' or 'powerful'.
  • The root 'imperare' means 'to command', which hints at its meaning of authority.
  • The term moved into English during the late 16th century, initially describing a king's attitude.

The word 'imperiousness' originates from the Latin word 'imperiosus', which means 'commanding'. Over time, it has evolved to describe a quality of being domineering or overbearing in behavior. The term has been used in English literature and language to depict characters with a strong sense of authority or arrogance.


See also: imperiously.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,941, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.