Douchy

Part of speech: adjective

Pronunciation: /ˈduːʃi/

Definitions

1. Exhibiting an annoying sense of superiority and self-importance Manifesting a pompous attitude that others find bothersome Describing someone whose behavior is irritatingly self-righteous or pretentiously confident
2. Showing rude or unpleasant arrogance that irritates others
3. Acting in a way that is disrespectfully self-important and grating

Etymology: "Douchy" is built from "douche" plus the adjective-forming suffix "-y", so its meaning rests on the older noun. "Douche" came into English from French, where it meant a jet of water, and it was used for a stream of water directed at the body for medical or hygienic purposes. The word was already in use in English in that sense before the slang shift took hold. The insult grew out of "douche bag," a compound that later became a slur for an obnoxious or contemptible person. The noun "douche" was shortened from that phrase and came to name such a person, and "-y" then turned it into a description of behaviour. Someone who is douchy acts like that kind of person: self-satisfied, pompous and tiresome to those around them. The spelling "douchey" is an alternative form of the same adjective, and both are in use. The word has stayed firmly informal, which is why it sounds more pointed than its polite origin would suggest.