Definition

The quality or state of being snobbish, which means having an attitude of superiority towards others, often based on social class or wealth.

Example

Her snobbishness made it difficult for her to make friends with people from different backgrounds.

Conversation

Have you noticed how some people can be so full of snobbishness?

Yeah, it's like they think they're better than everyone else.

I really don't understand that kind of attitude; it's just unnecessary snobbishness.

Totally agree! It makes social situations so uncomfortable.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Snobbishness is formed from 'snob' (originating from the 18th-century British slang, possibly derived from 'snob' meaning a shoemaker or a person of lower social status) and the suffix '-ish' (meaning having the quality of) combined with '-ness' (meaning the state or condition of). The word describes the state of being snobbish, or having the qualities of a snob, which implies a disdainful attitude towards those considered socially inferior.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who has the qualities of a 'snob' and is in a state of 'snobbishness' — this helps you remember that it refers to the condition of being disdainful towards others.

Visually Confused Words