What does the word aggrandize mean?

"Aggrandize" means to increase in power, wealth, scope, or prestige. It often implies an attempt to make oneself or something else seem greater or more impressive than it actually is, sometimes through exaggeration or self-promotion.

Here are some examples of how "aggrandize" might be used:

* The general tried to aggrandize his role in the victory. (He tried to make himself seem more important than he actually was.)

* The company's CEO was accused of aggrandizing his own wealth at the expense of the employees. (He was trying to make himself richer, even if it meant hurting others.)

* The new government focused on aggrandizing its power through tighter controls on the media. (They were trying to gain more power and control over the public.)

Synonyms for "aggrandize" include:

* Enhance

* Amplify

* Exalt

* Inflate

* Magnify

* Promote

Antonyms for "aggrandize" include:

* Diminish

* Reduce

* Humble

* Downplay

* Belittle