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Meaning of be supercilious
Having or showing an attitude of superiority, often accompanied by a patronizing or condescending manner.
Etymology of be supercilious
The word "supercilious" originates from the Latin words "super" meaning "above" and "cilium" meaning "eyebrow", with the Latin term "superciliosus" describing someone who raises an eyebrow in disdain or contempt, as per Oxford Languages.
Historically, the term has been used to describe individuals who exhibit haughty or condescending behavior, often by looking down on others.
Synonyms
condescending
patronizing
haughty
disdainful
contemptuous
scornful
arrogant
superior
snobbish
aloof
distant
reserved
cold
unfriendly
disagreeable
imperious
domineering
overbearing
oppressive
tyrannical
despotic
authoritarian
autocratic
dictatorial
high-handed
peremptory
imperious
lordly
magisterial
pontifical
self-important
snooty
uppity
pretentious
affected
mannered
stiff
formal
rigid
inflexible
Definitions
- Having or showing an attitude of superiority, often accompanied by a patronizing or condescending manner, as defined by Oxford Languages.
- * Behaving in a way that shows you think you are better or more important than others.
Usage Examples
- The professor's supercilious attitude made it difficult for students to approach him with questions.
- * She gave a supercilious smile when I told her I hadn't read the latest bestseller.
- * His supercilious tone put off many potential clients, who felt belittled by his condescending manner.
Antonyms
humble
modest
unassuming
reserved
shy
timid
diffident
self-effacing
unpretentious
down-to-earth
approachable
friendly
affable
genial
courteous
polite
respectful
considerate
thoughtful
kind
gentle
benevolent