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Snootiness Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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snootiness

[หˆsnuหtษชnษชs ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

in social interactions

The quality of being aloof, arrogant, or condescending towards others.

Synonyms

arrogance, haughtiness, snobbishness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
snootiness

Best used to describe someone who acts in a superior manner, looking down on others. Often has a negative connotation.

  • Her snootiness was evident when she refused to sit with anyone she considered beneath her
haughtiness

Typically used to describe a person who behaves in a proud, disdainful way, showing an attitude of superiority. It often carries a negative tone.

  • Her haughtiness was palpable as she walked through the room with her nose in the air
arrogance

Appropriate when referring to someone who has an exaggerated sense of their own abilities or importance, usually with a negative implication.

  • His arrogance made it difficult for him to accept any form of criticism or advice
snobbishness

Refers to someone who believes they are better than others based on social status, education, or taste. This is usually a critical or negative descriptor.

  • His snobbishness was apparent when he refused to dine at any restaurant that wasn't 5-star

Examples of usage

  • She was known for her snootiness towards anyone she considered beneath her.
  • His snootiness made it difficult for others to approach him.
  • People were put off by the snootiness of the exclusive club.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Societal Impact

  • Snootiness can lead to social divisions, as people who exhibit this behavior might create barriers and cliques based on perceived superiority.
  • In various societies, displays of snootiness are often met with social disfavor, indicating a cultural preference for humility.

Psychology

  • People with snooty attitudes may suffer from low self-esteem, trying to compensate by acting superior.
  • This behavior is linked to social comparison theory, where individuals judge themselves against others to boost their self-image.

Pop Culture

  • Snootiness has been a common theme in films and literature, often personified in characters from high-society backgrounds who look down on the less fortunate.
  • Television shows often portray snooty characters as comedic relief, highlighting the absurdity of their attitude.

Literature

  • Classic novels often critique snootiness as a moral failing, depicting characters like Jane Austenโ€™s Lady Catherine de Bourgh as exemplars of such behavior.
  • Contemporary authors explore themes of elitism in their works, emphasizing the negative impacts of snooty behavior on community and relationships.

Origin of 'snootiness'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'snooty' first appeared in the 19th century, derived from 'snoot,' a slang term for a person who looks down on others.
  • It initially referred to someone who had a haughty attitude, often related to social class distinctions.

The word 'snootiness' originates from the term 'snooty', which first appeared in the early 20th century. It is believed to have derived from the slang term 'snout', referring to the nose, and the suffix '-y' to denote a quality or characteristic. Over time, 'snootiness' has come to describe a negative attitude of superiority or disdain towards others.

See also: snoot, snootily, snooty.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #42,952, 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.