Crossword Genius

Arrogance frequently apparent in pointless snarling (12)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

toploftiness

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'arrogance' is the definition.
(thesaurus)

I cannot understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

I've seen this clue in The Times and The Sunday Times.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app