Supercilious Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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supercilious
[หsuห.pษหsษชl.i.ษs ]
Definitions
attitude
Behaving or looking as though one thinks one is superior to others.
Synonyms
arrogant, condescending, haughty.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| supercilious |
Used when describing someone who behaves or looks as though they think they are superior to others. This often involves a disdainful attitude and a sense of being above everyone else.
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| arrogant |
Used when referring to someone with an exaggerated sense of their own importance or abilities. This often involves a lack of respect for others and a belief that one is better or more important than others.
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| haughty |
Used for someone who is proud and unfriendly, often showing disdain for others. This word suggests a lofty and disdainful arrogance.
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| condescending |
Used to describe someone who speaks or behaves as if they are superior, often making others feel inferior. This involves looking down on others in a way that can seem patronizing or insulting.
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Examples of usage
- She always spoke in a supercilious tone, as if everyone around her was beneath her.
- His supercilious attitude made it difficult for others to approach him.
- Don't be so supercilious, no one likes a know-it-all.
appearance
Having or showing the proud and unpleasant attitude of people who think that they are better or more important than other people.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| supercilious |
Used to describe someone who behaves or speaks as if they think they are better than others. Often perceived as arrogant.
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| snobbish |
Describes someone who believes they are superior to others based on social status, intellect, or taste. Typically used in social settings.
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| disdainful |
Commonly used when someone shows contempt or a lack of respect for others. It conveys a strong sense of dislike.
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| uppity |
Informal word used to describe someone who is behaving in an arrogant or presumptuous way, often beyond what is deemed appropriate. It has a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- Her supercilious smile made it clear that she considered herself superior.
- The supercilious look on his face angered those around him.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- In Jane Austen's works, characters often exhibit supercilious behavior to highlight social hierarchies and flaws in society.
- F. Scott Fitzgerald uses supercilious characters in 'The Great Gatsby' to critique the moral decay of the wealthy.
- Charles Dickens frequently features supercilious individuals, illustrating their negative impact on personal relationships and society.
Psychology
- People displaying supercilious attitudes may be compensating for insecurities or low self-esteem.
- Research suggests that arrogance can backfire, leading to social isolation rather than admiration.
- Supercilious behavior is often a defense mechanismโa way to feel in control when others feel threatened.
Social Dynamics
- In social settings, those who are supercilious may struggle to form genuine connections and friendships.
- Supercilious individuals can create toxic environments, making others feel discouraged or undervalued.
- Societal expectations often perpetuate supercilious attitudes, especially in competitive environments like work or school.
Pop Culture
- Movies often depict supercilious characters as the quintessential 'mean girl' or the elitist villain.
- Social media influencers displaying a supercilious attitude may attract followers who admire confidence but also face criticism.
- In comedy, the supercilious character is often used for humor, exaggerating their arrogance to entertain audiences.
Origin of 'supercilious'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin word 'superciliosus', meaning โhaughtyโ or โarrogantโ.
- The root 'supercilium' translates to โeyebrowโ, suggesting a look of disdainโlike raising your eyebrow at someone.
- It entered the English language in the 17th century, capturing an attitude of superiority.
The word 'supercilious' originated from the Latin word 'super' meaning above, and 'cilium' meaning eyelid. In ancient Rome, raising one's eyebrows was seen as a sign of haughtiness or disdain towards others. Over time, the term evolved to describe someone who looks down on others with a sense of superiority.