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Superciliously: meaning, definitions and examples

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superciliously

 

[ ˌsuːpərˈsɪl.i.əs.li ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

attitude of superiority

In a manner that shows haughty disdain or contempt. To act in a way that demonstrates an arrogant or condescending attitude towards others.

Synonyms

arrogantly, contemptuously, haughtily, snobbishly.

Examples of usage

  • She looked at him superciliously, believing herself to be far better than he was.
  • The critic spoke superciliously about the film, dismissing it as 'unworthy of consideration.'
  • He smiled superciliously, convinced that his knowledge surpassed that of everyone in the room.

Translations

Translations of the word "superciliously" in other languages:

🇵🇹 superciliosamente

🇮🇳 घमंडी तरीके से

🇩🇪 herablassend

🇮🇩 dengan angkuh

🇺🇦 презирливо

🇵🇱 z pogardą

🇯🇵 傲慢に

🇫🇷 avec mépris

🇪🇸 con desdén

🇹🇷 kibirle

🇰🇷 거만하게

🇸🇦 بشكل متعجرف

🇨🇿 povýšeně

🇸🇰 povýšenecky

🇨🇳 傲慢地

🇸🇮 povzdignjeno

🇮🇸 yfirveganlega

🇰🇿 кекіре

🇬🇪 გალაღებული

🇦🇿 təhqir edərək

🇲🇽 con desdén

Etymology

The word 'superciliously' derives from the Latin word 'superciliosus', which means 'haughty' or 'disdainful'. The root 'supercilium' translates to 'eyebrow', and metaphorically it refers to a raised eyebrow often associated with arrogant or condescending attitudes. The term entered the English language in the late 19th century, capturing the essence of scornful mockery or superiority in behavior. Over time, 'superciliously' has been used predominantly in literary and formal contexts, often to describe individuals who consider themselves socially or intellectually superior to others. Its usage reflects the historical context of social stratification and the human tendency to assert dominance through contemptuous behavior.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,775, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.