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aggrandize

verb

/əˈɡrandʌɪz/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of aggrandize

To make someone appear more powerful or important than they actually are, often for the purpose of gaining attention or respect.
"The CEO used the media to aggrandize his role in the company’s success."

Detailed meaning of aggrandize

This can involve exaggerating someone's accomplishments or qualities, or presenting them in a more favorable light than is warranted. Aggrandizing can also involve promoting oneself or one's own interests in a way that is intended to enhance one's reputation or standing.

Example sentences containing aggrandize

1. The dictator tried to aggrandize himself by commissioning statues and portraits in his honor all over the country.
2. Some historical figures are known to have exaggerated their achievements to aggrandize their legacies.
3. The minister attempted to aggrandize his position by taking credit for initiatives he had not been involved in.
4. He often tells exaggerated stories of his travels in an attempt to aggrandize himself.
5. The king sought to aggrandize his realm by annexing neighboring territories through conquest.
6. Many social media influencers try to aggrandize their online presence through sensationalized content.

History and etymology of aggrandize

The verb 'aggrandize' has its roots in French, originating from the word 'agrandir,' which means 'to enlarge' or 'to increase.' It entered the English language in the late 16th century. 'Aggrandize' means to make someone or something appear more powerful or important than they actually are, often for the purpose of gaining attention or respect. The etymology of 'aggrandize' effectively conveys the notion of magnifying or enlarging the perception of someone or something, emphasizing the deliberate act of exaggerating their significance or stature. Whether used in the context of aggrandizing one's achievements, aggrandizing a historical figure, or aggrandizing a company's success, this term underscores the intent to enhance the perceived importance or influence for various reasons, including self-promotion, prestige, or influence.

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Further usage examples of aggrandize

1. The politician used propaganda to aggrandize his image as a protector of the people.
2. He was accused of aggrandizing his role in the project in order to get a promotion.
3. She wanted to aggrandize her role in the project, even though her contribution was minimal.
4. The novel seems to aggrandize the exploits of its protagonist, making him appear nearly superhuman.
5. Some corporations engage in charity not just for altruistic reasons, but to aggrandize their public image.
6. The ancient ruler built monumental structures to aggrandize his empire and display his power to the world.
7. He tends to aggrandize his achievements to impress others.
8. Politicians often aggrandize their accomplishments during campaigns.
9. Some people aggrandize their social media profiles to seem more exciting.
10. Don't aggrandize your role in the project; be honest about your contribution.
11. The CEO's memoir seemed to aggrandize his leadership abilities.
12. The film exaggerated the protagonist's actions to aggrandize the plot.
13. She didn't need to aggrandize herself; her work spoke for her.
14. Media outlets sometimes aggrandize celebrities to boost ratings.
15. They aggrandized their company's success to attract investors.
16. Be cautious not to aggrandize your wealth; it may alienate others.
17. He had a tendency to aggrandize the difficulties he faced.
18. The historian sought to aggrandize the significance of the discovery.
19. Some authors aggrandize their characters to create epic narratives.
20. He felt no need to aggrandize his position within the group.
21. The artist didn't aggrandize the beauty of the natural landscape.
22. Don't aggrandize yourself; be genuine in your interactions.
23. The marketing team worked hard to aggrandize the product's appeal.
24. Their goal was not to aggrandize their wealth but to give back to the community.