Aggrandize
Verb
Definition: To make something greater or more powerful, often used to describe someone's actions or attempts to increase their own importance or status.
Synonyms: Amplify, Enhance, Magnify
Antonyms: Minimize, Reduce, Diminish
- He constantly tries to aggrandize himself by exaggerating his accomplishments.
- The company's CEO was accused of aggrandizing the company's success in order to attract investors.
- "Aggrandize" sounds like "grand," which represents making something larger or more impressive.
Etymology:
The word "aggrandize" originated from the French word "agrandir," which means "to enlarge" or "to increase."
Historical Usage:The term has been used since the late 17th century and has consistently maintained its meaning of making something greater or more powerful.
Related Idioms:
"Aggrandize oneself"
Explanation:Refers to someone's attempts to make themselves appear more important or influential.
Misconceptions:
Confusing "aggrandize" with "aggravate."
Explanation:"Aggrandize" means to make something greater or more powerful, while "aggravate" means to make something worse or more severe. These two words have different meanings and should not be used interchangeably.