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What is another word for Pretentiousness? – 109 Pretentiousness Synonyms

    Need another word for Pretentiousness? Use these synonyms of Pretentiousness from our thesaurus to say it differently.


    Synonyms & Similar Words

    artificiality pompousness pretence affectation snobbery arrogance haughtiness superiority conceit self-importance egoism narcissism vainglory grandiosity ostentation showiness flashiness gaudiness tawdriness insincerity disingenuousness hypocrisy deceitfulness falseness phoniness superficiality shallowness friviolity triviality pedantry mannerism pose posture airs

    Meaning of Pretentiousness

    The quality of being pretentious, or having an exaggerated sense of one's own importance or superiority.

    Definitions

    • The quality of being pretentious, or having an exaggerated sense of one's own importance or superiority
    • An attitude or behavior that is intended to impress or intimidate others, often by using language or adopting mannerisms that are perceived as sophisticated or cultured
    • A tendency to exaggerate or misrepresent one's accomplishments, abilities, or status

    Etymology of Pretentiousness

    The word "pretentiousness" originated in the mid-17th century, derived from the Latin "pretentiosus," meaning "full of pretensions" or "assuming"
    The Latin term is a combination of "pretendere," meaning "to stretch out" or "to extend," and the suffix "-osus," which forms an adjective indicating a quality or state
    The word has been used in English since the 17th century to describe behavior or attitudes that are perceived as overly ambitious, arrogant, or insincere

    Example Uses

    • The artist's pretentiousness was evident in his use of overly complex language to describe his work
    • The professor's pretentiousness made it difficult for students to approach him with questions or concerns
    • The restaurant's pretentiousness was reflected in its elaborate menu and ornate decor

    Antonyms & Near Antonyms

    humility modesty simplicity sincerity authenticity genuineness straightforwardness down-to-earthness unpretentiousness lack of affectation naturalness spontaneity candor frankness openness honesty integrity unassumingness diffidence self-effacement

    Related Nouns

    affectation arrogance conceit ego haughtiness insincerity mannerism pedantry pose posture pretence pretension pride self-importance snobbery sophistication superficiality superiority vainglory

    Related Verbs

    affect assume brag boast feign flaunt impersonate mimic parody pose posture pretend put on show off simulate strut

    Related Adjectives

    affected artificial conceited egoistic false gaudy haughty insincere mannered ostentatious pedantic pompous pretentious self-important shallow showy sophisticated superficial superior vainglorious