Words / C2

BUMPSH-uh-s/ˈbʌmpʃəs/

Bumptious means offensively self-assertive and conceited: a bumptious intern, bumptious about rank. Arrogant (already in the dictionary) is everyday self-importance; haughty (already in the dictionary) is proud superiority of manner, and peremptory (already in the dictionary) is of a tone that allows no discussion. Affable (already in the dictionary) is the easy opposite. A pleasant or pushy chair still dates the embargo.

Meaning

Offensively self-assertive and conceited.

Examples

• “A bumptious chair still has to date the embargo.”
• “Arrogant is everyday self-importance (already in B2). Haughty is arrogantly superior (already in C2). Peremptory is “no argument” (already in C2). Affable is easy and pleasant (already in C2) — the contrast. Warmth in the room can be exact. Warmth instead of a yes-or-no on circulation is a hole. Name the rule; manner is optional after that.”

Good to know

Offensively self-assertive. Everyday: arrogant (already in this dictionary). Close: haughty / peremptory (already in C2). Contrast: affable (already in C2). Pushiness ≠ an embargo date.

Near in meaning

arrogant, pushy, conceited, overbearing

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