What does grandiose mean?
The word grandiose refers to a sense of excessive pride or self-importance, often accompanied by a sense of grandeur or magnificence. It can be used to describe individuals, ideas, or projects that are perceived as overly ambitious or pretentious. In formal or literary contexts, grandiose can be used to describe a sense of grandeur or magnificence, often with a sense of irony or skepticism. In informal contexts, it can be used to describe someone who is excessively proud or self-important. The word has a long history, dating back to the 17th century, and has been influenced by various languages, including Latin and French. It is often used in contrast to more modest or humble descriptions, and can be used to add nuance and complexity to one's language.
adjectiveExcessively proud or self-important; characterized by a sense of grandeur or magnificence.
- Excessively proud or self-important; characterized by a sense of grandeur or magnificence.
"The politician's grandiose promises to fix the economy were met with skepticism by the public."
"The politician's grandiose promises to fix the economy were met with skepticism by the public."
"The artist's grandiose vision for the new museum was met with both admiration and criticism."
The plural form grandioses is used to describe multiple instances of something that is excessively proud or self-important.
"The artist's grandioses visions for the new museum were met with both admiration and criticism."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of grandiose
The word grandiose originated in the 17th century from the Latin word 'grandis', meaning 'large' or 'great'. It was later influenced by the French word 'grandiose', which added a sense of magnificence or grandeur. The word has been used in various contexts, including literature and politics, to describe a sense of excessive pride or self-importance.
How grandiose is actually used
In formal or literary contexts, grandiose can be used to describe a sense of grandeur or magnificence, often with a sense of irony or skepticism. In informal contexts, it can be used to describe someone who is excessively proud or self-important.