Definition

In a way that shows excessive pride in oneself or one's achievements.

Example

He spoke vaingloriously about his accomplishments, making everyone else feel small.

Conversation

Did you see how he talked about his achievements at the party last night?

Yeah, he really went on vaingloriously about everything he’s done.

I know, it was a bit much!

Totally! Sometimes it's better to be humble.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Vaingloriously → It is formed from "vain" (from Old French *vain*, meaning empty or worthless) and "glory" (from Latin *gloria*, meaning fame or renown) combined with the adverbial suffix "-ously" (meaning in a manner of). The word describes acting in a manner that is excessively proud of one's achievements or appearance, often without justification.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who feels 'empty' ('vain') yet seeks 'fame' ('glory') — when they act in this way, they do so 'in a manner of' ('-ously'). This helps you remember that vaingloriously means acting with excessive pride.

Visually Confused Words