Definition

Describing someone or something that is full of wise sayings or moral expressions, often in a way that seems pompous or overly formal.

Example

The speaker's sententious remarks made the audience feel as if they were being lectured rather than inspired.

Conversation

Have you noticed how some people are so sententious in their speeches?

Totally! It’s like they think their words are more important than they really are.

Right? I prefer conversations that are more genuine and less preachy.

Me too, a little honesty goes a long way.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Sententious → It is formed from "sententia" (meaning opinion or feeling) and the suffix "-ous" (meaning full of). The word "sententious" means full of opinions or maxims, often in a pompous or moralizing way.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'full of opinions' ('sententia') — that's why sententious describes someone who expresses their opinions in a moralizing manner.

Visually Confused Words