COCKINESS Synonyms: 63 Similar and Opposite Words

cockiness

noun

Definition of cockiness

as in arrogance

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of cockiness The rookie quarterback understands there's a clear distinction, though, between poise and cockiness. — Cbs New York Team, CBS News, 13 Aug. 2026 But he has been accused of inflating his role in some projects and demonstrating a self-confidence that borders on cockiness. — Tracy Grant, Encyclopedia Britannica, 7 Aug. 2026 As the first officer of the Enterprise, Riker exuded confidence, swagger, and just enough cockiness to keep things interesting. — Chris Snellgrove, Entertainment Weekly, 21 July 2026 Much like Kurt, Kyle had a confidence that bordered on cockiness while repeatedly showcasing an ability behind the wheel to back up his bravado. — Jordan Bianchi, New York Times, 21 May 2026 His cockiness on the court is well-earned. — José Criales-Unzueta, Vanity Fair, 12 May 2026 Robert Romanus, as Damone, would scalp Ozzy Osbourne tickets to his grandmother, and yet deftly treads the tightrope between cockiness and desperation. — Gina Friedlande, HollywoodReporter, 7 Apr. 2026 Wednesday’s briefing, for example, featured the usual Hegseth hubris, strutting, and cockiness. — Peter Wehner, The Atlantic, 6 Mar. 2026 The great thing is society already embraces cockiness—just not from women. — Samyra, SELF, 14 Jan. 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for cockiness

Noun

And a stellar Paulson expertly exudes snide arrogance, until Sandra breaks open entirely.

— Natalia Winkelman, Variety, 16 Sep. 2026
What might seem arrogance in others feels merely reasonable coming from her.

— Robert Lloyd, Los Angeles Times, 26 Aug. 2026

Definition of arrogance

Noun

Adika explained to Fortune why this growing confidence often blends into overconfidence.

— Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 25 Aug. 2026
An overconfidence in the set-piece made South Africa waive off numerous kickable penalties at altitude to try and bury the All Blacks with tries.

— ABC News, ABC News, 22 Aug. 2026

Definition of overconfidence

Noun

Christina Applegate is back home and prioritizing self-confidence in the latest update on her ongoing battle with multiple sclerosis.

— Isabella Albaig, Vulture, 22 Sep. 2026
Scot’s self-confidence in genderqueer expression seems unrealistic for his age and for the times, and yuppie Sam is too perfect.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 21 Sep. 2026

Definition of self-confidence

Noun

Reiter’s character’s brash self-assurance, along with her expressive face and physicality, really complement a deadpan Wickline.

— Rima Parikh, Vulture, 27 Sep. 2026
The 25-year-old from California opened the final with some swagger, popping four aces in the first game, but his self-assurance quickly ebbed.

— Ava Wallace, New York Times, 14 Aug. 2026

Definition of self-assurance

Noun

There’s also hints of vulnerability and genuine tenderness in her stern headmistress of the bedroom, which Wilde slips in just slyly enough to let the presence of a heart peek through all the brainy brashness and hormone overload.

— David Fear, Rolling Stone, 30 July 2026
His brashness with a wink is a fun part of the package, but insight and candor are what make the best analysts.

— Andrew Marchand, New York Times, 10 June 2026

Definition of brashness

Noun

For people who feel intimidated by the gym, working with a qualified trainer for a few sessions can help boost confidence and refine technique, according to Zemer.

— Melissa Rudy, FOXNews.com, 29 Sep. 2026
Young Musicians Unite is providing free music education to more than 20,000 students each week across Miami, using the classroom to teach not only instruments but also confidence, teamwork and leadership.

— Najahe Sherman, CBS News, 29 Sep. 2026

Definition of confidence

Browse Nearby Words

cockily

cockiness

cocking

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“Cockiness.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/cockiness. Accessed 1 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of cockiness

noun

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