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self-congratulatory

  • a word derived from self-congratulation.
    self-congratulation
    noun
    the expression or feeling of uncritical satisfaction with oneself or one's own accomplishment, good fortune, etc.; complacency.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

“What Canada must achieve goes beyond the prevailing self-congratulatory rhetoric: transforming its comparative advantages—clean energy, resources, expertise—into new production capacity,” Jean says.

From The Wall Street Journal Jun. 19, 2026

Then, a self-congratulatory kicker: “No noise. No agenda. Asking the right questions for all Americans, on NewsNation.”

From Slate Apr. 21, 2026

That self-congratulatory cinematic gesture almost feels insulting, when it’s the audience who deserves a reassuring pat on the back.

From Los Angeles Times Aug. 9, 2024

That's usually a self-congratulatory comment, since the reporter has likely scripted the question for the anchor.

From Salon Aug. 31, 2023

He lifts his cup and flashes the most self-congratulatory grin I’ve ever seen.

From "Odd One Out" by Nic Stone