Hoity-toity meaning

Hoity-toity means acting pretentiously or snobbishly.


Hoity-toity definitions

Word backwards ytiot-ytioh
Part of speech adjective
Syllabic division hoi-ty-toi-ty
Plural The plural of hoity-toity is hoity-toities.
Total letters 10
Vogais (2) o,i
Consonants (3) h,t,y

Hoity-toity, a term often used to describe someone who acts or behaves in a snobbish or pretentious manner. It is typically used to convey a sense of superiority or arrogance, often in a mocking or humorous way.

Origins of Hoity-Toity

The origins of the term "hoity-toity" are a bit unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the 17th or 18th century. Some suggest that it may have been derived from the Middle French word "hoit," meaning to play the fool, or the English word "toit," meaning to behave in a high-handed or haughty manner.

Usage of Hoity-Toity

Today, "hoity-toity" is used to describe someone who is arrogant, snobbish, or pretentious in their behavior or attitude. It is often used in a light-hearted or teasing way to poke fun at someone who is being overly pompous or stuck-up.

Hoity-Toity in Popular Culture

The term "hoity-toity" is often used in literature, television, and film to depict characters who are portrayed as snobbish or self-important. It is a popular trope used to create comedic situations or to highlight the absurdity of someone's behavior.

Overall, "hoity-toity" is a colorful and playful term that adds a bit of whimsy to everyday language. It serves as a reminder not to take oneself too seriously and to embrace humility and authenticity over pretentiousness and arrogance.


Hoity-toity Examples

  1. Karen turned up her nose at the thought of eating at the hoity-toity restaurant.
  2. The hoity-toity guests at the party refused to mingle with anyone they deemed beneath them.
  3. The hoity-toity fashion designer only wore clothing from exclusive designer labels.
  4. The hoity-toity aristocrat spoke in a condescending tone to everyone around him.
  5. She felt out of place in the hoity-toity country club where everyone seemed to be judging her.
  6. The hoity-toity art critic looked down on anything that didn't fit his narrow definition of art.
  7. Despite her hoity-toity attitude, she was surprisingly down-to-earth when you got to know her.
  8. The hoity-toity members of the exclusive club looked down their noses at anyone who dared to join them.
  9. He always felt uncomfortable in the hoity-toity atmosphere of high-end gala events.
  10. The hoity-toity socialite spent her days attending luxurious events and flaunting her wealth.


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  • Updated 28/04/2024 - 17:37:38