gloat
/ɡləʊt/
Group 33Difficulty 1/3
Definition
- (verb)
- To contemplate or dwell on one's own success or another's misfortune with smugness or malignant pleasure GRE
Example in Context
The victorious party resisted the temptation to gloat, recognizing that the narrow margin of victory called for reconciliation rather than celebration.
Synonyms
bragboastrevel
Etymology
From Middle English meaning to stare, emphasizing the look of smug satisfaction.
- gloaten (Middle English) — to look at or stare at
Memory Aid
✨Sounds like “glow-lot”
When you GLOAT about winning, you GLOW like a LOT of trophies on your shelf!
Visual Association
🏆A person surrounded by trophies, grinning widely while everyone else looks frustrated.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “gloat” mean on the GRE?
gloat (verb) means “To contemplate or dwell on one's own success or another's misfortune with smugness or malignant pleasure”. The victorious party resisted the temptation to gloat, recognizing that the narrow margin of victory called for reconciliation rather than celebration.
How to remember “gloat” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “gloat” sounds like “glow-lot”. When you GLOAT about winning, you GLOW like a LOT of trophies on your shelf!
What are synonyms for “gloat”?
Common synonyms: brag, boast, revel.