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Definition of airs

airs

/ɛrz/
airs
Plural:airs
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airs Lexical Profile

airs Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

An affected, pretentious, or condescending manner intended to impress others and suggest superiority (especially in the phrase 'put on airs').

Example

"Despite his sudden promotion, he never put on airs around his former colleagues."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for airs
Antonyms
View all antonyms for airs

Word Nuance & Usage

As a standalone lexical entry, 'airs' is used exclusively in the plural to denote pretentious behavior (especially in 'put on airs' or 'airs and graces'), whereas the singular 'air' refers to the atmosphere or a general outward demeanor.

• Rhymes for airs

• Nearby Words

airpower
airproof
airprox
airs
airshaft
airship
airshow

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived in the late 16th century from the French 'air' in the sense of 'manner' or 'appearance', the plural 'airs' specifically developed to describe affected, haughty gestures.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Airs. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/airs
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