Imperiousnesses

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. The quality of being commanding and dominant, often exhibiting a sense of arrogance or superiority
2. A state characterized by an overbearing attitude and an expectation of obedience or compliance
3. The nature of being haughty and assertive, asserting one's will over others without regard for their feelings or opinions

Etymology: "Imperiousnesses" is the plural of "imperiousness," which is the noun form of "imperious," the adjective for behaving as if one has the right to command. Its root is the Latin "imperiosus," formed from "imperium" (command, rule, empire), itself from "imperare" (to command). That same Latin root gives English "emperor," "empire," and "imperial," so the word is a close cousin of the titles of rulers. "Imperious" entered English in the 16th century, and "imperiousness" followed as a derived noun, formed by adding the suffix "-ness" to the adjective. The plural "imperiousnesses" is rare, used when someone wants to refer to several distinct instances or displays of the quality, such as a series of commanding acts from one person.

Synonyms: domineeringness, overbearingness, arrogance, haughtiness, authority

Antonyms: meekness, humility, submissiveness, modesty, gentleness