Definition

Having an attitude of superiority and disdain for those considered inferior or less fashionable.

Example

She can be quite snobby when it comes to choosing her friends.

Conversation

Did you meet Lily at the party last night?

Yeah, she seemed a bit snobby to me.

I thought so too, like she looked down on everyone.

Exactly! It's not fun when someone acts that way.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Snobby → The word originates from the slang term 'snob', which is believed to derive from the dialectal term 'snob' (meaning a shoemaker or a person of low social status) in the early 19th century. The suffix '-y' is used to form adjectives. Thus, 'snobby' describes someone who behaves in a pretentious or elitist manner, often looking down on those perceived as inferior.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who acts like a 'snob' — they often look down on others, which helps you remember that 'snobby' describes that pretentious attitude.

Visually Confused Words