Word
pretentious
Meanings
Trying to appear more important, intelligent, or cultured than is true, in order to impress others.
Describing art, writing, or a design that seems overly grand or complex to impress people rather than to be clear or enjoyable.
Definition
Pretentious describes someone who tries to seem more important, intelligent, or cultured than they really are.
If a person or thing is pretentious, it seems like it is trying too hard to impress others. It often involves using fancy language, showing off knowledge, or acting superior. The word usually suggests that the display feels exaggerated or not genuine.
Examples
- He sounded pretentious when he used long words in a simple conversation.
- The restaurant was nice, but the menu felt pretentious.
- I don’t mind expensive clothes, but I hate pretentious behavior.
- Her pretentious tone made the meeting uncomfortable.