Definition
Imperious means to have an arrogant, commanding, or domineering attitude or manner, often expecting everyone to comply with one’s wishes.
Pronunciation
US English
UK English
Part of Speech
Adjective
Synonyms
bossy, domineering, arrogant, commanding, haughty, overbearing, autocratic, dictatorial, authoritarian, peremptory.
Antonyms
humble, meek, submissive, modest, deferential, unassuming, yielding.
Word Forms
| Part of Speech | Words |
|---|---|
| Noun | imperiousnesses, imperiousness |
| Verb | None |
| Adjective | imperious |
| Adverb | imperiously |
Example Sentences
-
The CEO’s imperious behavior towards his employees made them feel undervalued and demotivated.
-
She gave him an imperious look and demanded that he bring her a glass of water immediately.
-
The queen’s imperious demeanor made it clear that she was not to be trifled with.
-
He had an imperious voice that could bring a room to attention with just a single word.
Usage
Imperious is an adjective that is commonly used to describe someone who has an overbearing, commanding, or domineering personality. The word has a negative connotation and is often associated with people who have a sense of entitlement or who believe they are superior to others. The word is derived from the Latin word “imperiosus,” which means “commanding.”
One common prefix used with imperious is “un-” which when used, negates the meaning of the word. For instance, “unimperious” would mean something that is not domineering or overbearing. When “imperious” is used as a root, it is often combined with other suffixes to form new words. For example, “imperiously” is the adverb form of the word and is used to describe the manner of someone who is imperious. Another example is “imperiousness,” which is the noun form of the word and refers to the state or quality of being imperious.
People who are imperious tend to be controlling and domineering in their interactions with others. They often expect others to conform to their expectations and can be dismissive of any opinions or ideas that do not align with their own. This can make it difficult for others to work with them or feel comfortable around them. Imperious people are also often seen as arrogant or haughty, because of their commanding personalities.
In conclusion, “imperious” is a word that is often used to describe someone who is overbearing and controlling, and it can be considered negative. The prefix, suffix, and root variations of the word allow for the formation of new words that are related to its meaning. It is essential to be mindful of how we use such words in our interactions with others, so that we can communicate effectively and avoid offending anyone.