Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/kənˈsiːt/

Definitions

• Conceit (noun): An excessive sense of self-importance or pride; vanity.
• A fanciful idea or notion, often a result of imagination or creative thought.
• A literary device or metaphor that expresses a comparison between two dissimilar things in an intricate or elaborate way.

Usage Examples

• "His conceit made him arrogant, often putting others down to elevate himself."
• "The poem was filled with conceits comparing love to abstract concepts like a flame or a rose."
• "Her conceit was evident when she constantly spoke about her achievements."

Etymology

Derived from Middle English conceit, from Old French concepte (meaning "thought" or "idea"), which itself comes from Latin conceptus meaning "a thought or idea." The sense of "vanity" or "exaggerated self-image" developed in the late 16th century.

Synonyms

• Vanity
• Ego
• Self-importance
• Arrogance
• Hubris

Antonyms

• Modesty
• Humility
• Selflessness
• Unpretentiousness

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In American English, the emphasis is often placed on the second syllable: /kənˈsiːt/.
• In British English, the pronunciation tends to be more even, with a more neutral intonation: /kənˈsiːt/.

Historical Usage

The word "conceit" first appeared in Middle English in the 14th century, and its meaning has evolved over time. Initially referring to a mental concept or a fancy notion, it gradually took on a more negative connotation, reflecting excessive pride or self-regard. In the 16th century, the literary sense of "conceit" also emerged, describing elaborate metaphors used by poets, particularly in the works of John Donne and other Metaphysical poets.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, "conceit" is viewed negatively, as it implies an inflated sense of self-importance or an overly proud attitude. It is often associated with vanity and arrogance. In contrast, in literary contexts, "conceit" may refer to an intellectual or artistic device, where the comparison of two unrelated things serves to illustrate complex ideas or emotions. Thus, in the literary world, "conceit" is not necessarily seen as negative, but in everyday life, it typically carries a negative connotation.

More Information

In modern usage, "conceit" refers to both the inflated self-importance of an individual and the literary device that expresses complex comparisons. The term's negative connotation often appears in discussions about personality traits, while its literary use is found in the analysis of poetry and creative writing. Understanding the dual meanings of "conceit" can lead to a deeper appreciation of its rich history and its ongoing relevance in both personal interactions and literary works.