ENGLISH
REFERENCE

entitled

adj. · v.
US //ɛnˈtaɪtəɫd// UK //ɛntˈaɪtəld// en·ti·tled
  1. 1 having a right to something (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    having a legal or moral right to do or have something.

    possessing a legitimate legal or moral claim to a benefit or status.

    Example

    After working here for a year, you are entitled to three weeks of paid holiday.

    Example

    Under the new legislation, citizens are entitled to full disclosure regarding how their personal data is processed by third-party vendors.

    Usage

    Often followed by the preposition 'to'.
  2. 2 demanding special treatment (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Informal

    thinking you are better than others and deserve special treatment for no reason.

    characterised by a self-important or pretentious attitude; believing one deserves privileges without merit.

    Example

    The entitled customer shouted at the waiter because his table wasn't ready immediately.

    Example

    The documentary explores the friction between the local community and the entitled influencers who treat the town like a private film set.

    Teacher's tip

    This is a very common modern criticism, especially when older generations talk about younger ones.
Show 1 more senseShow fewer
  1. 3 to give a title (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    to give a book, movie, or song a specific name.

    to bestow a title upon a creative work or a person.

    Example

    She entitled her first novel 'The Long Walk Home'.

    Example

    The author entitled the final chapter with a cryptic phrase that only made sense after the shocking conclusion.

    Usage

    In modern English, 'titled' is often preferred for books and movies, though 'entitled' remains correct.

© 2026 English Reference