Swaggering: meaning, definitions and examples
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swaggering
[ˈswaɡərɪŋ ]
Definitions
showing off
To walk or behave in a very confident and typically arrogant or aggressive way, often to impress or intimidate others.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| swaggering |
Swaggering is used when someone is walking in a very confident and sometimes arrogant manner, often to show off. This word usually has a negative connotation.
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| strut |
Strutting indicates walking with a confident, often ostentatious manner. It can have a slightly negative implication when someone is showing off.
|
| saunter |
Sauntering is a relaxed and leisurely walk with no sense of urgency. It describes an easy, unhurried stroll.
|
| sashay |
Sashay describes a walk where someone moves in a casual and yet graceful manner, often with a bit of a swing in their step. This word can be used in both positive and neutral contexts.
|
Examples of usage
- He swaggered into the room, acting as though he owned the place.
- The bully swaggered down the hallway, looking for his next victim.
attitude
An arrogant or pompous manner of walking or behaving.
Synonyms
arrogance, boldness, confidence.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| swaggering |
Used when describing someone who is walking or behaving in a very confident and arrogant way, often trying to show off.
|
| confidence |
Describes a feeling of self-assurance arising from an appreciation of one's abilities or qualities. It is neutral or positive.
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| boldness |
Refers to the willingness to take risks and face difficult situations with courage. It generally has a positive connotation.
|
| arrogance |
Describes an attitude of superiority and disrespect for others. It has a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- His swagger was off-putting to those around him.
- She carries herself with a confident swagger that commands attention.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the 16th century and has links to the term 'swagger', originally meaning 'to boast' or 'to be arrogant'.
- It may also be connected to 'swag', a word used to describe a person's style or attitude.
- Over time, it evolved to describe a specific way of walking that reflects confidence.
Cultural Significance
- Swaggering is often associated with heroes in movies and literature, portraying characters who are confident or rebellious.
- In some music genres, like hip-hop, swaggering is a common theme, expressing self-assuredness and success.
- Fashion influences also play a role, as a 'swagger' can be encouraged by particular styles that project power and uniqueness.
Psychology
- People who walk with a swagger may be perceived as more attractive, as confidence is often linked to social desirability.
- Research suggests that body language, like swaggering, can influence one's own feelings of self-esteem and assertiveness.
- Swaggering can be a defense mechanism, allowing people to project confidence even when they feel insecure.
Literature
- In Shakespeare’s 'Hamlet', the character of Fortinbras embodies swaggering confidence, showcasing how it can denote power.
- Modern literature often uses swaggering characters to highlight themes of ambition and pride.
- The portrayal of swaggering figures often establishes a contrast with more humble characters in stories.
Pop Culture
- Swaggering is frequently depicted in films where characters walk into a scene exuding confidence, often during climactic moments.
- Dance styles, particularly in hip-hop, include moves that embody swagger, showcasing how it translates into physical expression.
- Social media influencers often cultivate a swaggering persona to attract followers, reflecting confidence in their lifestyles.
Translations
Translations of the word "swaggering" in other languages:
🇵🇹 ostentação
🇮🇳 दिखावा
🇩🇪 prahlerisch
🇮🇩 sombong
🇺🇦 пихатий
🇵🇱 chełpliwość
🇯🇵 誇示
🇫🇷 vantardise
🇪🇸 presuntuoso
🇹🇷 böbürlenme
🇰🇷 뽐내는
🇸🇦 تباهٍ
🇨🇿 chvástání
🇸🇰 chvastúnstvo
🇨🇳 炫耀
🇸🇮 bahavost
🇮🇸 mont
🇰🇿 мақтаншақтық
🇬🇪 ტრაბახი
🇦🇿 lovğalıq
🇲🇽 presumido