Entitlement

Etymology

From "entitle," via Old French from Late Latin "intitulare" (to give a title or heading to). Its old meaning is neutral and legal — to have a rightful claim — but through the 20th century "a sense of entitlement" hardened into a name for claims one has not earned.

noun · /en-TY-tul-ment/
An unfounded belief that one deserves special treatment or privileges.
What it names
The expectation of reward without warrant — the sense that the world owes you.
Example
The entitlement was breathtaking: he skipped the line, then complained the line was too slow.
Related idea
Entitlement assumes a right that isn’t there; arrogance asserts a superiority. One expects to be given; the other expects to be admired.
noun · /en-TY-tul-ment/
A government benefit that those who qualify have a legal right to receive.
What it names
a guaranteed public benefit program
Example
Pensions and health coverage are among the largest entitlement programs.
Related idea
Here the ‘right to receive’ is real and legal, unlike the unearned sense of expecting special treatment. Compare rights, duty.