pretentious

Definition from Wiktionary, a free dictionary

Contents 1 English 1.1 Alternative forms 1.2 Etymology 1.3 Pronunciation 1.4 Adjective 1.4.1 Synonyms 1.4.2 Derived terms 1.4.3 Related terms 1.4.4 Translations 1.4.5 References

[edit] English

[edit] Alternative forms

• prætentious (rare, pedantic or humorous)

[edit] Etymology

From French prétentieux < prétention < Latin praetensus (“‘false or hypocritical profession’”), past participle of praetendō.

[edit] Pronunciation

• (RP) IPA: /pɹɪˈtɛnʃəs/^[1]

[edit] Adjective

pretentious (comparative more pretentious, superlative most pretentious)

1. Marked by an unwarranted claim to importance or distinction

   Their song titles are pretentious in the context of their basic lyrics.

2. Ostentatious; intended to impress others

   Her dress was obviously more pretentious than comfortable.

[edit] Synonyms

• poseur
• See also Wikisaurus:arrogant

[edit] Derived terms

• pretentiously
• pretentiousness

[edit] Related terms

• pretend
• pretender
• pretense
• pretension

[edit] Translations

[edit] References

• Notes:

1. ^ The Concise Oxford English Dictionary [Eleventh Edition]

• pretentious in Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary, G. & C. Merriam, 1913
• pretentious in The Century Dictionary, The Century Co., New York, 1911
• pretentious at OneLook® Dictionary Search