adj
uppity
UH-puh-tee
Uppity (adj) means Arrogant or self-important, acting as if one is better or more important than one's actual position warrants. Example: “He got a bit uppity after his promotion.”
adj
1
Arrogant or self-important, acting as if one is better or more important than one's actual position warrants.
"He got a bit uppity after his promotion."
How to use uppity
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishActing snobbish or above your station.
Common mistake
The word has a dated, sometimes loaded history and can sound dismissive or judgmental — use with care.
Common pairings
get uppity
uppity attitude
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Word forms
- Comparative
- uppitier
- Superlative
- uppitiest
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He got a bit _____ after his promotion.
Etymology
From an earlier form uppedy, built from up + -ed + -y; first recorded around 1880 in Joel Chandler Harris's Uncle Remus stories.
Class of 1880
uppity joined the language around 1880.
See the full Class of 1880 →
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for uppity
See all rhymes for uppity →Frequently asked questions
What does “uppity” mean?
The word “uppity” means arrogant or self-important, acting as if one is better or more important than one's actual position warrants. In plain terms, acting snobbish or above your station.
How do you pronounce “uppity”?
“Uppity” is pronounced UH-puh-tee (/ˈʌpəti/ in IPA).
How do you use “uppity” in a sentence?
Here is “uppity” used in a sentence: “He got a bit uppity after his promotion.”
What part of speech is “uppity”?
“Uppity” is an adjective.
Where does the word “uppity” come from?
The word “uppity” dates back to around 1880. From an earlier form uppedy, built from up + -ed + -y; first recorded around 1880 in Joel Chandler Harris's Uncle Remus stories.
