Hubris

Hubris

ˈ(h)yo͞obrəs

Noun

  • Excessive pride or self-confidence.
  • (In Greek tragedy) Excessive pride toward or defiance of the gods, leading to nemesis.

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Example Sentences

“His hubris wouldn’t allow him to read the cabinet assembly instructions, and it took three days to put together.”

“I foolishly thought I would get the lead role without any preparation, but that was just hubris.” 

“Perhaps it’s hubris, but I think my team will win the championship this year.”  

Word Origin

Greek, late 19th century

Why this word?

In ancient Greece, seeing oneself as above the gods was the greatest crime — one that inevitably led to downfall. Eventually, this concept of extreme and fatal arrogance was given a name in the tradition of Greek tragedy: “hubris.” One of the most famous examples of hubris is told in John Milton’s “Paradise Lost.” Lucifer’s pride in seeing himself as wiser than God results in him being cast out into Hell and becoming the devil.

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Learn a new word Puerile

ˈpyo͞orəl