imperious
/ɪmˈpɪəɹi.əs/
Group 5Difficulty 2/3
Definition
- (adjective)
- Assuming power or authority without justification; arrogant and domineering GRE
Example in Context
The director's imperious management style alienated talented staff members who resented being treated as subordinates rather than collaborators.
Synonyms
bossydomineeringoverbearing
Etymology
Derived from Latin for 'to command', suggesting a commanding, bossy nature.
- imperare (Latin) — to command
Memory Aid
👑Sounds like “im-peer-ious”
Imagine a peer in a crown bossing everyone around, acting IMPERIOUS!
Visual Association
⚡A tyrant waving a scepter, demanding everyone bow down in fear and respect.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Confusable Pairs
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “imperious” mean on the GRE?
imperious (adjective) means “Assuming power or authority without justification; arrogant and domineering”. The director's imperious management style alienated talented staff members who resented being treated as subordinates rather than collaborators.
How to remember “imperious” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “imperious” sounds like “im-peer-ious”. Imagine a peer in a crown bossing everyone around, acting IMPERIOUS!
What are synonyms for “imperious”?
Common synonyms: bossy, domineering, overbearing.