WordValesupercilious
behaving as if superior to others
In more detail
1. (adjective) showing a disapproving or dismissive attitude toward others; acting as though you think you are better than other people
2. (adjective) characterized by an arrogant or superior manner
Examples
- 1. She gave me a supercilious look when I asked her for help, as if my question was beneath her intelligence.
- 2. His supercilious comments about other people's taste made him unpopular at the office.
How to use supercilious
Supercilious describes a dismissive, superior attitude expressed through manner, tone, or bearing rather than explicit words. It carries a distinctly negative judgment and suggests deliberate condescension. The word is more formal and literary than synonyms like 'arrogant' or 'snobbish', and is often used to describe facial expressions, tones of voice, or subtle social behaviors that convey contempt.
Common phrases
- supercilious smile
- supercilious attitude
- supercilious tone
- supercilious manner
- supercilious air
- supercilious sneer
Synonyms
arrogant · condescending · haughty · disdainful · snobbish
Opposites
humble · modest · deferential
Word family
superciliously (adverb) · superciliousness (noun)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse supercilious with 'suspicious' or pronounce it incorrectly; remember it is pronounced 'soo-per-SIL-yuhs' and refers to a haughty manner, not doubt or uncertainty.
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