jumped-up: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘jumped-up’ mean?
Jumped-up refers to someone who is arrogant or conceited, often due to suddenly acquiring a higher social or professional status. This idiom describes individuals who overestimate their importance and exhibit an inflated sense of self-importance.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "jump through hoops" means to go to great lengths or make a considerable effort to achieve or satisfy someone's demands or expectations.
The idiom "jump the queue" means to unfairly skip ahead in a line or order, usually resulting in others' frustration or annoyance.
The idiom "jump the gun" means to do or say something prematurely or before the appropriate time.
Jump the gun is an idiom that means to act prematurely or take action before the appropriate time. The phrase originated in the United States during the early 20th century and is commonly used in everyday language. It can be used in both informal and formal contexts, in spoken and written communication.
The idiom "jump out" means to stand out or be noticeable due to its distinct or unusual characteristics.
The idiom "jump in one's skin" means to startle or shock someone, causing a noticeable physical reaction. It often refers to a sudden surprise or fright that causes a person to react quickly or jolt in surprise.
Jump in one's skin is an idiomatic expression that describes the strong, involuntary reaction to a sudden surprise or shock. When someone jumps in their skin, they physically feel their skin tighten or prickling, often accompanied by a visible startle or jolt.
The idiom "jump down someone's throat" means to angrily and aggressively criticize or confront someone about something they have said or done.
The idiom "jump before one is pushed" means to take action or make a decision before being forced or pressured to do so. It implies being proactive and avoiding negative consequences by acting preemptively.
Deciphering Status Climb
Jumped-up is one of many idioms used in both British and American English. It refers to someone who is arrogant, self-important, or pretentious. This term has been around since the early 1900s and is commonly used to criticize individuals for acting as if they are more important than they really are. It can also be used to comment on broader social or cultural trends. The idiom is more commonly used in British English and is often used in informal and colloquial contexts. However, it is still understood and used in American English, typically in a formal or literary context.
One possible origin of the term "jumped-up" is the idea of someone jumping up in rank or social status. This could suggest that someone who is "jumped-up" has suddenly gained power or importance, leading them to act superior. Another possible origin is the concept of someone literally jumping out of their seat in an excited or boastful manner. Regardless of its origin, the term conveys a sense of disapproval and criticism towards those who exhibit arrogance or self-importance.
Let's explore some related idioms to "jumped-up" - "high and mighty," "big head," "high horse," and "jump on." Each of these idioms shares a common theme of describing individuals who display arrogance or a sense of superiority.
"High and mighty" is used to describe someone who acts in a superior or haughty manner. This idiom suggests that the person holds themselves in high regard and believes themselves to be more important than others. It is similar to "jumped-up" in that it criticizes individuals for their inflated sense of self-importance and lack of humility.
"Big head" is another idiom that is related to "jumped-up." It refers to someone who is arrogant or conceited. This idiom implies that the person has an inflated opinion of their own abilities or accomplishments. Much like "jumped-up," it is used to criticize individuals who act as if they are more important than they actually are.
When someone is described as being "on a high horse," it means that they are acting in a condescending or self-righteous manner. This idiom suggests that the person is looking down on others and believes themselves to be morally or intellectually superior. Like "jumped-up," it highlights the negative traits of arrogance and a lack of humility.
Lastly, the idiom "jump on" is used to describe the act of criticizing or attacking someone, typically in a harsh or forceful manner. This idiom can be used to criticize someone who is perceived as being arrogant or acting superior. It is akin to "jumped-up" in that it expresses disapproval towards individuals who exhibit such behavior.
Overall, "jumped-up" is a colorful and evocative idiom that effectively conveys the negative traits of arrogance, self-importance, and pretentiousness. It is commonly used to criticize individuals for acting as if they are more important than they really are, and it also serves as a commentary on broader social or cultural trends. Whether it originated from the idea of jumping up in rank or someone literally jumping out of their seat, its meaning and usage have stood the test of time. In British English, it is often used in informal and colloquial contexts, while in American English, it is more likely to be used in a formal or literary context.
Example usage
1. The new supervisor is so jumped-up, he thinks he's the boss of everyone.
2. I find it ridiculous how he behaves like a jumped-up celebrity just because he got a promotion.
3. She can be quite arrogant and superior, always acting like a jumped-up know-it-all.
More "Adjectives" idioms
