snotty

Imagine someone who acts like they're better than everyone else. That's what this word usually describes. It can literally relate to having a nose full of mucus, but in everyday English it most often refers to a person who acts superior and rude. Think of a spoiled prince in a fairy tale who sneers at people he sees as beneath him; that's a classic example. You might also hear people talk about a "snotty remark" or a "snotty tone." Because it suggests both arrogance and bad manners, it is almost never a compliment.

"Snotty" is an adjective used to describe someone who is arrogant, conceited, and behaves in a superior or scornful way. The origin of the word is quite literal: it originally referred to someone having a nose full of mucus. Over time, this physical unpleasantness became a metaphor for an unpleasant personality. It evolved from describing a "snotty-nosed" brat to describing anyone who acts bratty, entitled, or overly proud.

In modern conversation, when we call someone snotty, we aren't usually talking about their health. Instead, we are describing an attitude of looking down on others, often displayed through condescending language or dismissive behavior. A snotty person might correct your grammar unnecessarily, scoff at your hobbies, or generally act as if their opinions are the only ones that matter.

You will often encounter "snotty" when describing characters in literature or film: the wealthy socialite who treats others as beneath her is a prime example. It is also frequently used to describe a tone of voice: "She delivered the news in a snotty tone." While the word is informal and can sound a bit harsh, it remains a vivid way to convey someone's irritating arrogance. So, if you meet someone who acts like they're too good for the rest of the world, don't be surprised if they are labeled snotty.