Snobbiest: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'snob' is believed to have originated in the late 18th century, possibly from a term used to describe a shoemaker's apprentice.
• Originally, 'snob' referred to a lower-class person, but it evolved to mean someone who pretends to be of a higher social rank.
• The suffix '-iest' transforms 'snobby' into a superlative, highlighting someone who is the most pretentious or elitist in a group.

Psychology

• Research suggests that snobbiness can often stem from insecurity, where individuals feel the need to elevate themselves by downgrading others.
• Psychologists note that hard social hierarchies can lead to snobby behavior as a way for individuals to assert social dominance.
• The concept of social comparison theory indicates that people often compare themselves to others, which can lead to snobby attitudes when they believe themselves to be superior.

Pop Culture

• Many classic films feature snobby characters, such as Patricia in 'Pretty Woman,' showing how these traits are often linked with humor or irony.
• Popular books often include snobby characters to create conflict, like the character of Gigi in 'Gigi' who represents the elite Parisian society.
• The stereotype of the 'snobby rich person' is a common trope in media, highlighting tensions between social classes.

Literature

• F. Scott Fitzgerald’s 'The Great Gatsby' brilliantly portrays snobbery through characters like Tom Buchanan, who flaunts his wealth and looks down on others.
• In Jane Austen's novels, snobby characters often serve as cautionary figures, demonstrating the folly of valuing social status over genuine connections.
• Charles Dickens frequently depicted snobbish behavior to critique societal norms, focusing on the absurdity of social pretensions.

Cultural Insights

• Different cultures have various interpretations of snobbishness, with some societies valuing humility more than apparent social prestige.
• In contrast, certain cultures might celebrate exclusivity, where snobbishness is often seen as a symbol of success and achievement.
• Cultural shifts in recent years have increasingly challenged snobby attitudes, advocating for egalitarianism and respect across social classes.