Arms of pretension – Definition & Meaning

Conclusion

Arms of pretension is a term that is not commonly used in everyday conversations, but it is still important to understand its meaning and significance. This article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of what arms of pretension means, its origin, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and example sentences.

Definitions

Arms of pretension refers to a display of grandeur or ostentation that is intended to impress or intimidate others. It can also refer to the symbols or emblems that are used to represent a person’s status or rank, such as a coat of arms or a heraldic device.
In simpler terms, arms of pretension can be defined as an attempt to present oneself as superior or more important than others through the use of grand gestures or displays.

Origin

The term “arms of pretension” has its roots in the medieval practice of using coats of arms to denote social status, family lineage, and other important information. These coats of arms were often adorned with symbols and emblems that were meant to convey a sense of power and prestige.
Over time, the term “arms of pretension” came to be used more broadly to refer to any display of grandeur or ostentation that was intended to impress or intimidate others.

Meaning in different dictionaries

The term “arms of pretension” is not commonly found in most dictionaries. However, it can be found in some specialized dictionaries that focus on heraldry or medieval history.
In these dictionaries, the term is defined as a display of grandeur or ostentation that is intended to impress or intimidate others, or as the symbols or emblems used to represent a person’s status or rank.

Associations

Arms of pretension are often associated with arrogance, conceit, and a desire to dominate others. They can also be associated with a lack of humility and a tendency to overestimate one’s own abilities or importance.
In some cases, arms of pretension can be seen as a form of insecurity, as individuals may use grand displays or symbols to compensate for feelings of inadequacy or inferiority.

Synonyms

Some synonyms of arms of pretension include grandiosity, pomposity, ostentation, showiness, and pretentiousness. These terms all refer to a similar tendency to present oneself as more important or impressive than one actually is.

Antonyms

Antonyms of arms of pretension include humility, modesty, simplicity, and unpretentiousness. These terms all refer to a more down-to-earth and humble approach to life, without the need for grand displays or symbols.

The same root words

The term “arms” in “arms of pretension” refers to the heraldic symbols or emblems that were used to denote social status and family lineage in medieval times. The word “pretension” refers to the act of making a claim to something, such as a title, position, or status.
Together, these words suggest a desire to claim or display a higher status or rank than one actually has, through the use of grand gestures or symbols.

Example Sentences

1. The billionaire’s mansion was adorned with all sorts of arms of pretension, from the golden gates to the marble columns and crystal chandeliers.
2. The politician’s coat of arms was a clear example of arms of pretension, with its intricate design and numerous symbols denoting his family’s long history of wealth and power.
3. The CEO’s constant boasting about his accomplishments was seen as a form of arms of pretension, as he seemed to be trying to impress his colleagues with his perceived superiority.

In conclusion, arms of pretension refers to a display of grandeur or ostentation that is intended to impress or intimidate others. It can also refer to the symbols or emblems that are used to represent a person’s status or rank. While not a commonly used term, it is still important to understand its meaning and significance, as it can help us to recognize and avoid behaviors that may be seen as arrogant or conceited.