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Synonyms

arrogance

American  
[ar-uh-guhns] / ˈær ə gəns /
Also arrogancy

noun

  1. offensive display of superiority or self-importance; overbearing pride.

    Synonyms:
    disdain, insolence, haughtiness
    Antonyms:
    diffidence, modesty, humility

Other Word Forms


Etymology

Origin of arrogance

First recorded in 1275–1325; Middle English, from Middle French, from Latin arrogantia “presumption”; see arrogant, -ance


Explanation

Arrogance is overbearing pride or haughtiness. If your friends are constantly complaining about your arrogance, you might want to lose the haughty attitude and try to be more humble. Arrogance comes from the Latin arrogans which means overbearing. If you show arrogance, your pride is overbearing and offensive to others. Arrogance can also be attributed to corporations who fail to take consumer opinion into account and to nations that seem to do whatever they want with no regard for other countries.

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Vocabulary lists containing arrogance

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

You have to wonder if he’ll lose a bit of the arrogance, if the space between Watters’ segments and the network’s chosen tack will grow even wider.

From Salon ● Oct. 25, 2026

It isn’t an arrogance or nonchalant lack of passion.

From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 27, 2026

Allow me the arrogance, or the naivete, to believe them.

From Salon ● Sep. 18, 2026

Root stationed eight fielders on the boundary at one point - but it did not deter Razaullah as he brashly swaggered at the crease with the arrogance of youth.

From BBC ● Sep. 11, 2026

I was the only one with enough arrogance.

From "The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian" by Sherman Alexie

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