self-congratulatory
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a word derived from
self-congratulation.
self-congratulationnounthe 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.
“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
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