godan verb (-ru), intransitive verb
lean back; stretch out and arch back
Describes a physical posture of leaning back with legs braced, often in a relaxed or defiant manner. Compare with ふんぞり返る, which is more common for this meaning.
See also: ふんぞり返る
彼は椅子に踏ん反って、天井を見つめていた。
He leaned back in his chair and stared at the ceiling.
godan verb (-ru), intransitive verb
act haughtily; be arrogant
Figurative use derived from the physical posture; implies an overbearing or condescending attitude. Often used in the phrase 踏ん反り返る for this sense.
See also: ふんぞり返る
新入社員のくせに、もう踏ん反っている。
Even though he's a new employee, he's already acting all high and mighty.