aggrandize

Aggrandize is a verb that means to increase the power, wealth, status, or influence of someone or something. It can also refer to making something appear greater or more important than it actually is. The word originates from the Latin word "grandis," meaning "great."

When used to describe increasing power or status, aggrandize often implies a deliberate effort to expand one's influence or control. For example, a nation might seek to aggrandize its military power by investing heavily in new weapons and training. A business might aim to aggrandize its market share through aggressive expansion and acquisitions. In a personal context, an individual might try to aggrandize their reputation by taking credit for others' work or exaggerating their accomplishments.

Alternatively, aggrandize can describe the act of embellishing or exaggerating something to make it seem more significant. This usage often carries a negative connotation, suggesting deception or dishonesty. For instance, someone might aggrandize a minor achievement to impress others, or a journalist might aggrandize a small incident to create a more dramatic news story. The key aspect in this sense is the distortion of reality to inflate perceived importance.