Imperious
hardNegative toneim-PEER-ee-us
adjective
Definition
Assuming power or authority without justification; domineering
Memory hook
IMPER-IOUS: acting like an EMPEROR — domineering, arrogant, and expecting obedience.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“Her imperious manner made her unpopular with colleagues.”
“The imperious CEO tolerated no dissent from subordinates.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“Her ______ manner made her unpopular with colleagues.”
Show answer
imperious
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Imperious is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "domineering" or "overbearing" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "humble".
Related GRE Words
officious
intrusively eager to offer unwanted help or advice; meddlesome
bombastic
High-sounding but with little meaning; inflated or pretentious language
supercilious
Behaving as though one is superior to others
admonish
To warn or reprimand someone firmly
censure
To express severe disapproval of someone or something, especially in a formal statement
condescending
Having or showing an attitude of patronizing superiority
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