Entitlement

/ɪnˈtaɪtəlmənt/ noun

Definition

A right or benefit that someone is entitled to receive, or an unreasonable belief that one deserves special treatment.

Etymology

From 'entitle' (from Latin 'intitulare,' to give a title or right to). The word originally meant 'a right' but has taken on a negative connotation in modern usage.

Kelly Says

The word 'entitlement' has done a complete personality shift—it used to be neutral (Social Security is an entitlement you've earned), but now people use it negatively to criticize others, making it one of the most judgmental words in English!

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