# airs

/ˈɛɹz/ (US) · /ˈeəz/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/airs
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. pretentious behaviour

noun · CEFR B2

a way of acting that is intended to make you seem more important, rich, or clever than you actually are.

For teachers: 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'.

### 2. plural of air

noun · CEFR B1

more than one type of air, or different atmospheres.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- She has terrible airs about her job.
- The new manager put on airs, refusing to sit with the rest of the team at lunch.
- His sudden airs of sophistication were transparent to the old staff, who remembered when he was just another eager intern.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.