Synonyms for

Cocky

Verb / ˈkɑ:ki: / Another word for cocky — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

having or showing confidence or arrogance

Synonyms & similar words

arrogant overconfident conceited smug self-important proud haughty egotistical cocksure vainglorious boastful self-assured brash audacious bold impudent insolent cheeky brassy saucy

Synonyms by register

Formal

arrogant conceited haughty supercilious

Informal

big-headed full of himself overconfident smug brash

Literary

vainglorious pompous swaggering

Antonyms

humble modest shy timid reserved unassuming deferential

Common collocations

  • cocky attitude
  • cocky grin
  • cocky remark
  • cocky young man
  • a bit cocky
  • too cocky
  • act cocky

Word family

noun cockiness
adjective cocky
adverb cockily

Usage note

Cocky is an informal adjective used to describe someone who is excessively proud of themselves and their abilities. It often carries a negative connotation, implying arrogance and overconfidence.

Example sentences

  1. He was so cocky that he thought he could win the race without training.
  2. The cocky boy didn't listen to his teacher's instructions.
  3. Her cocky attitude made her unpopular with her classmates.
  4. The football player's cocky behavior annoyed his opponents.
  5. Don't be too cocky, or you might make mistakes.

Quotes

  • The cockier the man, the smaller the cock.
  • A cocky person is someone who thinks they are more important than they really are.
  • A cocky person is just a confident person who's too cool for school.

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