Overweening: meaning, definitions and examples
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overweening
[ ˌoʊvərˈwiːnɪŋ ]
personality trait
Overweening describes an attitude marked by excessive confidence or pride. It often implies that someone has an inflated sense of their own importance or abilities, leading to arrogance. This quality can result in disdain or disregard for others, creating conflicts in social situations. People exhibiting overweening behavior may continuously brag about their achievements or believe they are superior to those around them.
Synonyms
arrogant, conceited, hubristic, presumptuous, proud.
Examples of usage
- His overweening ambition alienated his colleagues.
- The overweening self-confidence of the team backfired during the competition.
- She has an overweening desire for control, which frustrates her friends.
Translations
Translations of the word "overweening" in other languages:
🇵🇹 presunçoso
🇮🇳 अति आत्मविश्वासी
🇩🇪 überheblich
🇮🇩 sombong
🇺🇦 завищений
🇵🇱 przesadny
🇯🇵 傲慢な
🇫🇷 arrogant
🇪🇸 arrogante
🇹🇷 kibirli
🇰🇷 오만한
🇸🇦 متعجرف
🇨🇿 přehnaný
🇸🇰 prehnaný
🇨🇳 自大的
🇸🇮 napuhjen
🇮🇸 ofurmatur
🇰🇿 өзімшіл
🇬🇪 გამოაზრებული
🇦🇿 özündənrazı
🇲🇽 arrogante
Etymology
The word 'overweening' has its origins in the Middle English term 'overwenyng', which is derived from the Old English 'oferwenan'. The prefix 'over-' suggests exceeding a limit or going too far, while 'wenan' means to think or believe. Thus, 'overweening' conveys the idea of thinking too highly of oneself. Its usage dates back to the late 14th century, primarily in English literature, where it often described characters who exhibited arrogance or excessive pride. The term has evolved through centuries, maintaining its negative connotation associated with inflated self-esteem. It has been popularized in various literary works, highlighting themes of hubris and its consequences.