Overweening

usgb/ˌəʊvərˈwiːnɪŋ/
adjective

Being too confident or proud in an optimistic way.

His overweening belief in his own abilities led to his downfall.
Visual representation of "overweening" - Being too confident or proud in an optimistic way

Often appears as...

  • overweening pride
  • overweening ambition

Usage tips

Formal, Disapproving

Academic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "overweening"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Negative Nuance

Understand 'overweening' carries a negative tone, implying excessive self-assurance.

Illustration for Negative Nuance
Her overweening confidence blinded her to the advice of her friends.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Likely Outcomes

'Overweening' often precedes negative results due to excessive pride or ambition.

Illustration for Likely Outcomes
The startup's overweening ambition led to hasty decisions and failure.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Subtly Critical

Use 'overweening' for subtly criticizing someone's excessive pride without using harsh words.

Illustration for Subtly Critical
The chef's overweening belief in his untested recipe was a recipe for disaster.
Word comparison image

Compare with

arrogantconceithaughtyimperiousoverbearingoverconfidentpompouspresumptuous
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Visual representation of the word "Overweening"

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