Wordxplr

The meaning and origin of interesting English phrases

Arrogant

Meaning

Displaying an offensive attitude of superiority or self-importance.

Origin

The word "arrogant" descends directly from the Latin verb arrogare, meaning "to claim for oneself, to appropriate, to assume." Imagine an ancient Roman patrician, puffed up with self-importance, haughtily asserting privileges or power that might not rightfully be theirs alone. This act of "claiming" or "assuming" a superior status, often unjustly, laid the linguistic groundwork for our modern understanding. From this Latin root, the sense of undeserved or excessive self-importance solidified, describing someone who presumes too much and exhibits an offensive sense of superiority.

Examples

  • His arrogant dismissal of their concerns made him deeply unpopular with the team.
  • She was often perceived as arrogant due to her unwavering confidence and blunt opinions.
← All phrases