Conceit
Noun
Definition: An excessively favorable opinion of one's own abilities, importance, or worth; an over-high opinion of oneself.
Definition: A literary device or figure of speech where two vastly different objects are compared in an extended metaphor, often with clever or surprising juxtaposition.
Synonyms: Arrogance, Vanity, Egotism
Antonyms: Humility, Modesty
- His constant boasting about his achievements displayed his conceit.
- The love sonnet used a conceit of comparing the lover to a summer's day.
- Think of "conceit" as "conceited" - a person with an excessive opinion of themselves.
- "Conceit" can also refer to a clever or surprising metaphor, so think of "concept" to remember this meaning.
Etymology:
Middle English from Old French 'conceite', from Latin 'conceptus' meaning "concept" or "idea".
Historical Usage:The word entered the English language in the 14th century originally meaning "something conceived in the mind" before evolving to its current meanings.
Related Idioms:
"In conceit with oneself"
Explanation:Refers to someone who is overly self-centered or self-absorbed.
Misconceptions:
Confusing "conceit" with "concept".
Explanation:While both words have similar sounds, they have different meanings. "Conceit" refers to excessive self-esteem or a literary device, while "concept" refers to a general idea or notion.