pretentious
UK: prɪˈten.ʃəs | US: prɪˈten.ʃəs
adj. attempting to impress by affecting greater importance, talent, or culture than is actually possessed
adj. ostentatious or showy in style or manner
pretentious = preten<pretend> + tious<adjective suffix>
- preten (from Latin praetendere, "to stretch forth, claim") → pretend (to claim or assert falsely)
- tious (adjective-forming suffix, indicating "full of" or "characterized by")
Etymology Origin:
The word pretentious originates from the Latin praetendere ("to stretch forth, allege"), combining prae- ("before") + tendere ("to stretch"). It evolved through French prétentieux to describe someone who "stretches" their claims or appearances beyond reality, hence conveying artificiality or exaggerated self-importance. The suffix -tious reinforces the adjective form, emphasizing the trait.
His pretentious speech about obscure philosophy alienated the audience.
The restaurant’s decor was overly pretentious, with gilded frames and fake antiques.
She dismissed his pretentious attempt to name-drop famous artists.
Avoid using pretentious jargon when simpler words will suffice.
The novel was criticized for its pretentious prose and lack of substance.