HUBRIS Meaning and
Definition
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Hubris is a noun that refers to excessive pride or self-confidence, especially when accompanied by arrogance or a disregard for others' opinions or ideas. It represents an inflated sense of superiority or overestimation of one's abilities, often leading to disastrous consequences or downfall.
Originating from the Greek word 'hybris,' hubris is frequently associated with tragic heroes in classical literature or Greek mythology such as Oedipus or Icarus. It is typically characterized by an individual's audacious behavior or belief that they are invincible and above the rules or limitations of society.
A person displaying hubris tends to have an overbearing sense of entitlement and may belittle or ignore others' contributions, opinions, or warnings. They often consider their own judgments and abilities as infallible, ignoring any evidence to the contrary. Consequently, such individuals may engage in reckless behavior, take unnecessary risks, or engage in actions that harm themselves or those around them.
Hubris is considered a negative trait as it often leads to a downfall or failure. It blinds individuals to their own shortcomings or limitations, preventing them from recognizing their mistakes or seeking counsel from others. In literature and storytelling, hubris is frequently depicted as a tragic flaw, highlighting the consequences of excessive pride and arrogance.
Overall, hubris is an egotistical characteristic characterized by an overestimation of one's abilities, leading to a disregard for others' perspectives and often resulting in catastrophic outcomes.
Common Misspellings for HUBRIS
Etymology of HUBRIS
The word "hubris" derives from ancient Greek, specifically from the word "hybris" (ὕβρις). In Greek mythology and literature, "hybris" was used to describe an extreme form of arrogance or prideful overconfidence. It referred to a behavior where individuals displayed insolence, disrespect, or challenged the gods, leading to their downfall. The concept of "hybris" emphasized the violation of boundaries, both social and moral, and often resulted in a catastrophic punishment or downfall for the offender. Over time, "hybris" was transliterated into "hubris" in English and has become widely used to describe excessive pride or arrogance leading to a person's downfall.
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