Puffed-up

Puffed-up describes someone or something that is inflated with pride, arrogance, or self-importance. It conveys a sense of being unduly pleased with oneself, often to the point of being ostentatious or condescending. This inflated sense of self can manifest in behavior, speech, or appearance, suggesting a disconnect between one's actual abilities or achievements and their perceived self-worth. The term frequently carries a negative connotation, implying that the individual is overconfident and possibly oblivious to their shortcomings or the feelings of others. It's an adjective, often used to describe people, but also applicable to actions, attitudes, or even objects that reflect an excessive display of self-regard. It captures the idea of an outward swelling of ego, creating a superficial image that may not withstand scrutiny. The term is often used to satirize or criticize individuals who are seen as vain or pretentious.

Puffed-up meaning with examples

• After winning the competition, the young athlete became quite puffed-up. He boasted about his victory constantly and dismissed his competitors' skills, ignoring the hard work that led to his success. His coach, concerned by his sudden arrogance, cautioned him about letting his ego take over and reminded him to stay grounded in his training.
• The politician's puffed-up speeches, filled with self-praise and exaggerated claims, alienated many voters. His arrogance about his own policies, despite facing widespread criticism, made it difficult for him to connect with the public. This haughty behavior ultimately contributed to his declining popularity and political downfall, as the electorate grew tired of his self-aggrandizement.
• Her puffed-up reaction to a minor compliment revealed her insecurity. Despite only receiving slight praise, she immediately began to act overly superior, which embarrassed her colleagues. This over-the-top response highlighted her need for validation and betrayed an underlying sense of self-doubt that drove her exaggerated attempts at self-importance.
• The puffed-up display of wealth at the party was off-putting. Guests showcased their expensive possessions, creating a sense of competition and making others feel inadequate. The ostentatious show of riches, rather than promoting a joyful atmosphere, emphasized a culture of vanity and created an unwelcoming atmosphere for those who prioritized genuine connection over material status.
• The author's puffed-up writing style, filled with flowery language and complex sentence structures, made her novel difficult to read. The excessive ornamentation, aimed at showcasing her vocabulary and skills, ultimately detracted from the story's plot and characters, making the book less accessible and enjoyable for the average reader. The style ultimately failed to impress, and the novel was considered overly pretentious by many.