Uppity: meaning, definitions and examples
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uppity
[ ˈʌpɪti ]
disrespectful behavior
behaving as if you are more important than you really are, especially towards people who are older or have a higher social status
Synonyms
arrogant, condescending, haughty, presumptuous
Examples of usage
- She found his attitude towards her staff uppity and offensive.
- Don't get uppity with me, young man!
historical context
originally used in the Southern United States to describe African Americans who were perceived as not knowing their place in society
Synonyms
disrespectful, impudent, insolent, presumptuous
Examples of usage
- He was accused of being uppity for speaking out against the unfair treatment of his community.
- The term 'uppity' was often used by white people to keep African Americans in a subordinate position.
Translations
Translations of the word "uppity" in other languages:
🇵🇹 arrogante
🇮🇳 घमंडी
🇩🇪 hochnäsig
🇮🇩 sombong
🇺🇦 зарозумілий
🇵🇱 zarozumiały
🇯🇵 高慢な (こうまんな)
🇫🇷 arrogant
🇪🇸 arrogante
🇹🇷 kendini beğenmiş
🇰🇷 거만한
🇸🇦 متغطرس
🇨🇿 nafoukaný
🇸🇰 namyslený
🇨🇳 自大的 (zìdà de)
🇸🇮 vzvišen
🇮🇸 drambsöm
🇰🇿 менменсінген
🇬🇪 გაბრაზებული
🇦🇿 təkəbbürlü
🇲🇽 arrogante
Word origin
The word 'uppity' originated in the Southern United States in the early 19th century. It was used primarily by white people to describe African Americans who were seen as not knowing their place in society. The term carried connotations of arrogance and disrespect towards authority. Over time, 'uppity' has evolved to describe anyone who behaves in a presumptuous or arrogant manner, especially towards those of higher social status. The word has a complex history tied to issues of race, power, and social hierarchy.