hoity-toity
UK[ˌhɔɪti ˈtɔɪti]US[ˌhɔɪti ˈtɔɪti]
adj
behaving in a way that suggests you think you are better or more important than other people; haughty or snobbish.
Etymology
the term "hoity-toity" originated in the 17th century as a rhyming reduplication based on the now-obsolete verb "hoit," which meant to romp or behave in a noisy, boisterous manner. Initially, it described silly or frivolous behavior. over time, the meaning shifted to convey a sense of haughty or flighty affectation, likely influenced by the association of frivolousness with airs and pretension. the playful, sing-song nature of the word itself ironically underscores the perceived silliness of the snobbish attitude it describes, solidifying its modern sense of disdainful superiority.
Analysis
this is a reduplicative compound, formed by the playful rhyming alteration of the earlier word "hoit," an obsolete verb meaning "to indulge in riotous or noisy mirth."
Examples
she dismissed the idea with a hoity-toity wave of her hand.
i don't like the hoity-toity atmosphere of that exclusive club.
there's no need to get all hoity-toity just because you have a fancy new job.