Snootily Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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snootily

[หˆsnสŠtษชli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

used in a formal or superior way

In a haughty or disdainful manner, showing a lack of respect or consideration for others.

Synonyms

arrogantly, disdainfully, haughtily.

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Word Description / Examples
snootily

Used to describe someone who acts in an overly superior or condescending manner, often looking down on others. It can suggest a certain level of arrogance but with a focus on behaving like they're better than others.

  • She looked snootily at the poorly dressed man.
  • He snootily dismissed the waiterโ€™s suggestion.
haughtily

Used when someone behaves in a proud, disdainful manner, often suggesting a sense of superiority over others. It is similar to 'snootily' but can have a more regal or formal connotation.

  • The queen's advisor haughtily dismissed the peasants' request.
  • She haughtily refused to participate in what she called 'lowly tasks.'
disdainfully

Used to describe someone who shows a strong feeling of contempt or disdain towards others. It signifies more of an outright rejection or lack of respect, often in a very visible way.

  • She looked disdainfully at the suggestion to volunteer.
  • He spoke disdainfully about the new regulations.
arrogantly

Used when someone shows an exaggerated sense of their own importance and a lack of respect for others. It can be used in formal or informal settings and generally has a more negative tone.

  • He arrogantly claimed that he was the best employee in the company.
  • She arrogantly ignored everyone's advice.

Examples of usage

  • She looked at him snootily, as if he was not worth her time.
  • The waiter snootily informed us that they were fully booked for the evening.
Context #2 | Adverb

used in a judgmental or critical way

In a snobbish or pretentious manner, displaying an air of superiority or exclusivity.

Synonyms

condescendingly, pretentiously, snobbishly.

Examples of usage

  • She spoke snootily about the neighborhood, implying it was beneath her standards.
  • He snootily dismissed the idea as unworthy of his attention.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • Snooty characters are commonly found in films and books, often portrayed as rich villains or annoying socialites.
  • The term 'snooty' often appears in dialogue in comedies to highlight pretentiousness, enhancing humor.

Psychology

  • Arrogant behavior, reflected in being snooty, is often a defense mechanism for insecurity, attempting to elevate one's self-image.
  • Research shows that individuals exhibiting snooty behavior may feel a need for power or control over their social environment.

Literature

  • Classic literature often portrays snooty characters as antagonists, showcasing flaws in their elitist attitudes.
  • Authors use snooty traits to create satire, making fun of social classes and their pretensions.

Sociology

  • Snooty behavior can highlight class divisions, with those displaying it trying to maintain socio-economic advantages.
  • In social settings, people often perceive snooty attitudes as unapproachable, affecting interpersonal relationships.

Origin of 'snootily'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from 'snooty', originating in the late 19th century, likely as a playful variation of 'snoot', which means nose.
  • In Victorian England, 'snooty' described the aristocratic class who looked down on the working classes.

The word 'snootily' is derived from the term 'snooty,' which originated in the early 20th century. The word 'snooty' is believed to have come from the slang term 'snout,' meaning nose, and the suffix '-y,' indicating a characteristic. Over time, 'snooty' evolved to 'snootily' to describe the manner in which someone behaves with an air of superiority or disdain.


See also: snoot, snootiness, snooty.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #42,816, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.