Definition

In a way that is overly confident or self-assertive, often in a rude or annoying manner.

Example

He spoke bumptiously at the meeting, making everyone uncomfortable with his arrogance.

Conversation

Did you see how he spoke at the meeting?

Yeah, he was so bumptiously confident, it was almost over the top.

I know, right? It felt like he was trying too hard to impress everyone.

Definitely! Sometimes being a bit more humble works better.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Bumptiously → It is formed from "bump" (originating from Middle English *bumpen*, meaning to thump or strike) and the suffix "-iously" (meaning in a manner characterized by). The word "bumptiously" describes behaving in a self-assertive or arrogant manner, as if striking or thumping one's presence.

Memory Tip

Think of someone behaving in a way that 'thumps' their presence ('bump') and doing so 'in a manner' ('-iously') that is assertive or arrogant.

Visually Confused Words