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Airs - Dictionary Page

Airs

Part of Speech

Plural noun (often used as singular in context)

Pronunciation

/ɛərz/

Definitions

  • Noun: The manner or style of a person’s behavior, particularly when it is pretentious or affected. Example: "He put on airs at the party."
  • Noun: A flow of air or wind, especially in a light or gentle manner. Example: "The cool airs of the evening were refreshing."
  • Verb: To assume a pretentious manner or pose. Example: "She airs her grievances publicly."

Usage Examples

  • He walked into the room with airs of superiority, making everyone uncomfortable.
  • The gentle airs of the countryside provided a soothing atmosphere during their walk.
  • After winning the award, she began to air her opinions on every subject.

Etymology

The term "airs" comes from the Middle English "air," derived from the Old French "air," meaning "atmosphere" or "appearance," which comes from the Latin "aer." The figurative use referring to an affected or pretentious demeanor first appeared in the 17th century.

Synonyms

  • Attitude
  • Posture
  • Mannerism
  • Self-importance
  • Pretense

Antonyms

  • Modesty
  • Sincerity
  • Humility
  • Honesty
  • Openness

Translations

Language Translation Pronunciation
Spanish Actitud afectada /aktitud afektada/
French Attitude prétentieuse /atityd pʁetɑ̃sjøz/
German Verstellte Haltung /fɛɐ̯ˈʃtɛltə ˈhaltʊŋ/
Chinese 做作的态度 (zuòzuò de tàidù) /tswɔ˥˥ tswɔ˥ de˙ tʰaɪ˥˥ tu˥/
Hindi अहंकार (Ahamkār) /əhəmˈkɑːr/

Regional Pronunciation Variations

  • American English: /ɛərz/
  • British English: /ɛərz/
  • Australian English: /ɛəz/

Historical Usage

The phrase "putting on airs" became common in the 17th century to describe someone who was acting in an affected or pretentious manner, usually to show superiority. It is linked to social class distinctions and has remained in use in various forms to describe people who display an inflated sense of importance.

Cultural Nuances

In different cultures, the concept of "airs" can carry various implications. In some cultures, displaying airs might be seen as a way of asserting social status, while in others, it may be frowned upon as arrogance or pride. The term is often used humorously to critique individuals who act overly self-important.

More Information

The expression "airs" has been used historically to criticize those who assume an exaggerated sense of importance or show off their status in a pretentious manner. Over time, the word has come to encompass both literal and figurative meanings, from the literal movement of air to the social performance of superiority. In modern use, it often refers to attitudes of superiority or self-importance in social interactions, especially when exaggerated or out of place.

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