# conceit

/kənˈsit/ (US) · /kənsˈiːt/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/conceit
Updated: 2026-05-20

## Definition

a belief that you are much more important or clever than other people. It can also mean a clever or original idea that shows off the writer's skill.

For teachers: an exaggerated sense of self-importance or intellectual superiority. In a literary context, it refers to a clever or elaborate metaphor or figure of speech that displays the author's ingenuity.

## Examples

- His arrogance was nothing more than a simple conceit.
- The poet's use of a grand conceit comparing the heart to a clock demonstrates his mastery of metaphor.
- While the protagonist's conceit makes him a difficult character to like, it also serves as a vehicle for the author's exploration of human hubris.

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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.