adjective

haughty

/ˈhɔːti/ · say it: HAW·tee

arrogantly superior and disdainful

In more detail

(adjective) behaving in a way that shows you think you are better or more important than other people; arrogant and proud in an unfriendly way

Examples

She spoke in a haughty tone, refusing to acknowledge anyone beneath her social status.

How to use haughty

Haughty describes someone who displays obvious disdain or contempt for others they consider beneath them, often through behavior, tone, or expression. It is more specific than simple pride—it emphasizes both superiority and coldness toward others. This is typically used in formal or literary contexts and often carries a judgmental tone.

Common phrases

haughty attitude
haughty manner
haughty expression
haughty tone of voice
haughty demeanor

Synonyms

arrogant · proud · disdainful · supercilious · snobbish

Opposites

humble · modest · meek

Word family

haughtily (adverb) · haughtiness (noun)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse haughty with merely proud or confident; haughty always includes a dismissive, disdainful element and implies disrespect toward others.

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