Word
airs
US/ˈɛɹz/
UK/ˈeəz/
Definitions
01pretentious behaviour
B2 · Upper Intermediate Plural noun
n. a way of acting that is intended to make you seem more important, rich, or clever than you actually are.
n. affected or pretentious manners adopted to impress others or project a superior social status.
“Since she got the promotion, she has been putting on airs and acting like she is our boss.”
“Despite his humble origins, he began to put on airs after joining the elite social club, alienating his long-time friends with his newfound snobbery.”
Usage
Usually used in the phrase 'put on airs' or 'airs and graces'.
Synonyms
02plural of air
B1 · Intermediate Countable noun
n. more than one type of air, or different atmospheres.
n. the plural form of air, used when referring to distinct atmospheres or musical melodies.
“The scientist studied the different airs found in various layers of the atmosphere.”
“The composer was known for writing sweet, simple airs that captured the folk traditions of the countryside.”
Synonyms
Real-World Examples
“When the show airs, I’ll stay away from Mancunians because I’m sure they’ll tell me exactly what they think!”
Dangerous waters … Beth (Romola Garai) and Tom (Dominic Cooper).” “But before that airs, Lycett has six episodes of Live from the Lycett Arms to deliver.” Idioms
02. put on airs
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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