Pompousness
/ˈpɒm.pəs.nəs/noun
The quality of being pompous; self-important or grandiose in manner.
Did you know?Pompousness comes through a chain tied to Latin and Greek words for a grand procession, so the modern insult still carries the shadow of public spectacle and ceremonial display.
Etymological Timeline
Greek
Greek
pompē
“A procession or solemn escort, especially in a ceremonial or ritual sense”
Latin
Latin
pompa
“A grand procession, parade, or display”
Late Latin
Latin
pompōsus
“Full of pomp; showy, stately, splendid”
Middle French
French
pompous
“Showy, ostentatious, magnificent”
16th–17th Century
English
pompous
“Showy, stately, or grand in manner”
18th Century
English
pompousness
“The quality of being pompous, especially in an affectedly self-important way”