Haughtiness

/ˈhɔːtinəs/ noun

Definition

The quality or state of being haughty; arrogance, snobbery, or an attitude of scornful superiority.

Etymology

From 'haughty' plus '-ness,' the Old English suffix forming abstract nouns. The 'gh' spelling reflects French influence on Middle English.

Kelly Says

Medieval courtesy books actually warned against haughtiness as one of the worst character flaws—it was seen as worse than other sins because it suggested you thought yourself above moral law.

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