Entitled Meaning and Definition
Entitled
Pronunciation
/ənˈtaɪld/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A person who demands special treatment, privileges, or advantages without justification or earned merits, often exhibiting a sense of superiority or entitlement to these advantages.
Examples
- The heir felt entitled to the family business, despite having no experience in management.
- She believed she was entitled to a promotion simply because she had been with the company for a few years.
Synonyms
- Arrogant
- Conceited
- Pompous
Antonyms
- , Modest
- Humble
- Selfless
Etymology
The word “entitled” originated from the 15th-century Middle English word “entitlen,” meaning “to make worthy or deserving.” Over time, its connotation shifted to refer to a person who possesses an excessive sense of self-importance or superiority.
Usage Notes
Be cautious when using “entitled” in everyday conversation, as it can be perceived as insulting or accusatory. Instead, consider using phrases like “prone to entitlement” or “feeling entitled” to maintain a respectful tone.
Cultural References
The concept of entitlement has been explored in various forms of media, such as sitcoms, films, and social media.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“Complaining entitlement” refers to a person consistently expecting special treatment or being overly sensitive to perceived injustices.
Related Words or Phrases
Words closely related to “entitled” include “arrogant,” “spoiled,” and “self-absorbed.”
Collocations
Common collocations with “entitled” include phrases like “feeling entitled,” “acting entitled,” or “being entitled to.”
Frequency of Use
The word “entitled” has become increasingly popular in modern language, particularly in the context of social media and online discourse.
Common Misspellings
Common misspellings of “entitled” include “entiltled,” “entiled,” “entiled,” and “entilited.”