Definition
Having or showing an excessive sense of one’s own importance or abilities
Pronunciation
US English
UK English
Part of Speech
Adjective
Synonyms
conceited, haughty, overconfident, self-important, pompous, egotistical
Antonyms
humble, modest, unassuming, meek, unpretentious, diffident
Word Forms
| Part of Speech | Words |
|---|---|
| Noun | arrogance, arrogances |
| Verb | None |
| Adjective | arrogant |
| Adverb | arrogantly |
Example Sentences
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His arrogant demeanor and condescending remarks alienated those around him, earning him a reputation for being insufferably self-important.
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The arrogant billionaire flaunted his wealth and dismissed the struggles of those less fortunate, displaying a complete lack of empathy.
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Her arrogant assumption that she was always right hindered collaboration and strained relationships in the workplace.
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The arrogant athlete boasted about their accomplishments, belittling their opponents and displaying a lack of sportsmanship.
Usage
The word “arrogant” finds its roots in the Latin word “arrogans,” which means “assuming power” or “claiming for oneself.” It conveys a sense of superiority, self-importance, and an exaggerated belief in one’s abilities or worth. The term often carries a negative connotation, reflecting an inflated ego and a lack of humility.
The prefix “ar-” in “arrogant” indicates a sense of “to” or “toward,” while the root “-rogant” stems from the Latin word “rogare,” meaning “to ask” or “to propose.” The combination suggests a sense of making unwarranted assertions or claims, often without justification or acceptance of differing perspectives.
“Arrogant” is an adjective used to describe individuals who display a haughty or overbearing attitude, considering themselves superior to others. It typically involves an excessive display of self-confidence, coupled with a disregard for the opinions or feelings of others. Arrogant behavior often includes a tendency to belittle or demean others, as well as an unwillingness to admit faults or acknowledge one’s limitations.
While “arrogant” can have negative implications, it is important to note that confidence and assertiveness, when balanced with humility and respect, can be positive attributes. However, an excessive or unchecked display of these traits can tip into arrogance. The word serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining a healthy level of self-assurance while also valuing the contributions and perspectives of others.
The term “arrogant” does not have any common prefixes or suffixes attached to it. Its simplicity and directness allow it to effectively convey the notion of inflated pride and an unyielding belief in one’s own superiority.
In summary, “arrogant” carries a historical association with assuming power and making unwarranted claims. It denotes an excessive sense of self-importance, often leading to disrespectful or dismissive behavior towards others. Its usage highlights the need for humility and the importance of fostering balanced self-assurance to foster healthy relationships and effective collaboration.