supercilious etymology

Etymology:

  • Super: "above" (Latin)
  • Cilium: "eyelash" (Latin)

Meaning:

  • haughty or arrogant
  • disdainfully aloof

Origin:

The term "supercilious" was originally used to describe someone with arched eyebrows, which were considered a sign of disdain or arrogance. In Roman culture, the eyebrows were considered to be associated with pride and authority, and raising or arching them was seen as a way of expressing superiority.

Over time, the term "supercilious" evolved to refer to a person who exhibits a general air of superiority, disdain, or condescension. It is now commonly used to describe someone who is excessively proud, arrogant, or aloof.

Examples of Usage:

  • "Her supercilious smile left no doubt about her low opinion of us."
  • "The politician's supercilious tone made it clear that he didn't think much of his constituents."
  • "He has a supercilious way of looking down on others."

supercilious relate terms

  • superciliary

    Etymology The word superciliary is derived from the Latin phrase supercilium meaning

  • supercilious

    Etymology Super above Latin Cilium eyelash Latin Meaning haughty or arro

  • supercilium

    Etymology Latin supercilium eyebrow Derived from super above cilium eyelash

  • supercilious

    Etymology Super above Latin Cilium eyelash Latin Meaning haughty or arro

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    Etymology The word snide is derived from the Old English word sniðan meaning to cu

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  • pepper

    Etymology The word pepper comes from the Middle English word pepre which in turn com

  • high

    Etymology The word high derives from the Middle English word hie which traces its ro

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    Etymology The word super has Latin origins stemming from the prefix super meaning

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