supercilious
What does "supercilious" mean?
The word "supercilious" describes a person who behaves as if they are superior to others, often showing contempt or indifference. The mental image is someone literally raising their eyebrows—the word comes from the Latin 'supercilium' (eyebrow)—to look down their nose at people they deem unworthy of their attention. It is a formal term used to characterize haughty, arrogant, or patronizing behavior. You would typically use this to describe someone who is cold, dismissive, or stuck-up, often in a professional or social setting where they believe they hold higher status than those around them.
"supercilious" in conversation
Discussing a difficult boss
Did you see how he looked at the intern's presentation?
Did you see how he looked at the intern's presentation?
Yeah, he was so supercilious. He didn't even try to hide his boredom.
Yeah, he was so supercilious. He didn't even try to hide his boredom.
Used here to describe a dismissive attitude toward someone perceived as inferior.
Describing a snobbish acquaintance
I don't think I'll invite Julian to the dinner party.
I don't think I'll invite Julian to the dinner party.
Good call. His supercilious attitude really kills the mood.
Good call. His supercilious attitude really kills the mood.
Highlights how such behavior can negatively affect social dynamics.
"supercilious" in a sentence
She gave him a supercilious smile.
She gave him a supercilious smile.
The judge's supercilious tone made the witness feel small.
The judge's supercilious tone made the witness feel small.
Despite his lack of experience, he maintained a supercilious air that alienated all of his colleagues.
Despite his lack of experience, he maintained a supercilious air that alienated all of his colleagues.
