Aretism
/ˈær.ə.tɪz.əm/noun
A rhetorical expression of praise or boastful declaration concerning one’s own excellence.
Did you know?Aretism is built from Greek aretē, meaning excellence or virtue—the same ideal that shaped ancient Greek debates about becoming the best version of oneself.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*h₂er-
“To fit, join, or be suitable; a proposed root behind several words for excellence and order.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
aretē
“Excellence, virtue, or outstanding merit.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
aristos
“Best or most excellent; the source of the first element in aristocrat.”
19th Century
English
aretism
“A rhetorical term for praising or boasting about one’s own excellence.”
Modern English
English
aretism
“A rare word for self-laudatory speech or a boastful declaration of merit.”
Explore more surprising origins