aggrandize
verb
To increase the power, status, or wealth of someone or something; to make something appear greater than it is. Often used negatively for self-promotion.
Etymology
From French "agrandir" (to make larger), from Latin "ad" (to) + "grandire" (to make great), from "grandis" (great).
Examples in Use
- 1.
"He used every opportunity to aggrandize himself."
- 2.
"The dynasty aggrandized its power through strategic marriages."
- 3.
"Critics accused the biography of aggrandizing minor achievements."
Related Vocabulary
Synonyms
Related Words
Fun Fact
Self-aggrandizement has been studied extensively in psychology. Research suggests that while modest self-promotion can help careers, excessive self-aggrandizement often backfires, reducing perceived trustworthiness.
Word Game Tips
Letters: 10 letters (A, G, G, R, A, N, D, I, Z, E)
Scrabble Value: 22 points
Tip: The letter pattern in "AGGRANDIZE" appears in many related words.
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