hauteur

UK: əʊˈtɜː(r) | US: oʊˈtɜːr

Definition

  1. n. an attitude of superiority or disdain; arrogance

Structure
haut <high>eur <noun suffix (French)>
Etymology

Hauteur entered English in the 17th century from French, where haut ("high") metaphorically implied social or moral loftiness. The suffix -eur solidified its meaning as "the quality of being high"—literally and figuratively. Over time, it narrowed to describe an aloof, superior demeanor, reflecting aristocratic attitudes of the era.

Examples

  1. Her hauteur made it difficult for others to approach her.

  2. The critic’s hauteur was evident in his dismissive tone.

  3. Despite his hauteur, he was deeply insecure.

  4. The diplomat’s hauteur alienated potential allies.

  5. She mistook his quiet confidence for hauteur.