verb
exaggerate
ig-ZAJ-uh-rayt/ɪɡˈzædʒəreɪt/
To describe something as greater or more extreme than it really is.
The fisher exaggerates the catch with a gesture much wider than the fish.
Etymology
Aggerare meant “heap up,” with ex- probably adding “thoroughly.” The physical image of piling things higher became figurative amplification: describing something as greater than it really is.
In context
people actually don't understand the other side, they exaggerate their views. Some of the polarization is more perception than reality. We actually are closer together.
More examples
- He exaggerated the cost.
- They are exaggerating the danger.
- She exaggerates for effect.
Forms
exaggerate · exaggerates · exaggerated · exaggerating
exaggeration noun — an overstated account
Similar words
- overstate
- States something too strongly.
- embellish
- Adds details that may or may not make something seem greater.