Airs and graces is a phrase that is often used to describe someone who is putting on a show of superiority, elegance, or refinement. It is a term that is often used in a negative sense, implying that someone is being insincere or pretentious. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of airs and graces, its origin, and its associations.
Definitions
Airs and graces refer to a pretentious or affected way of behaving or speaking. It is a mannerism that is often used to impress others or to show off one’s social status. It can also refer to a person’s exaggerated sense of self-importance or superiority.
Origin
The phrase airs and graces is believed to have originated in the 18th century. It is thought to have been derived from the French phrase “airs de cour,” which referred to the elaborate and artificial manners of the French court. The term “grace” was added later to emphasize the idea of an affected and insincere behavior.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Cambridge Dictionary, airs and graces mean “an exaggerated way of behaving that is intended to impress other people.” The Oxford Dictionary defines it as “an affected and pretentious mannerism.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “a pretentious or showy manner.”
Associations
Airs and graces are often associated with people who are trying to impress others or to show off their social status. It is also associated with people who are insincere or pretentious. The term is often used to describe people who are putting on a show of refinement or elegance, but who are not genuine in their behavior.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of airs and graces include pretentiousness, affectation, artificiality, ostentation, and grandiosity.
Antonyms
Some antonyms of airs and graces include humility, sincerity, authenticity, simplicity, and modesty.
The same root words
The words airs and graces both have roots in the French language. The word “air” comes from the French word “air,” which means “manner” or “appearance.” The word “grace” comes from the French word “grâce,” which means “grace” or “elegance.”
Example Sentences
Here are some example sentences that use the phrase airs and graces:
- She was putting on airs and graces, pretending to be someone she wasn’t.
- He had a lot of airs and graces, but he didn’t fool anyone with his pretentious behavior.
- The politician’s speech was full of airs and graces, but it lacked substance and sincerity.
- She was trying to impress her new friends with her airs and graces, but they saw right through her.
- The wealthy businessman had a lot of airs and graces, but he lacked the warmth and generosity of spirit that truly impresses people.
Airs and graces are a term that is often used to describe someone who is putting on a show of superiority, elegance, or refinement. It is a term that is often used in a negative sense, implying that someone is being insincere or pretentious. The term has its roots in the French language and has been in use since the 18th century. It is associated with people who are trying to impress others or to show off their social status, but who lack sincerity and authenticity in their behavior.