Synonym Study

• Disdainful implies even stronger and more overt feelings of scorn for that which is regarded as beneath one
• Supercilious stresses an aloof, scornful manner toward others a supercilious intellectual snob
• Overbearing implies an oppressively or haughtily domineering manner an overbearing supervisor
• Insolent , less commonly used now with this meaning, implies both haughtiness and contempt, esp. as manifested in behavior or speech that insults or affronts others she showed an insolent disregard for the servant's feelings
• Haughty implies such consciousness of high station, rank, etc. as is displayed in scorn of those one considers beneath one a haughty dowager
• Arrogant implies an aggressive, unwarranted assertion of superior importance or privileges the arrogant colonel
• Proud is the broadest term in this comparison, ranging in implication from proper self-esteem or pride to an overweening opinion of one's importance too proud to beg, proud as a peacock