self-flattery

[ self-flat-uh-ree, self- ]

noun

1. praise and exaggeration of one's own achievements coupled with a denial or glossing over of one's faults or failings; self-congratulation.

Other Words From

• self-flatter·ing adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of self-flattery¹

First recorded in 1670–80

Example Sentences

We judge of every thing by comparison, and self-flattery always renders the comparison favorable to ourselves.

From Project Gutenberg

Such self-flattery is usually the most amiable phase of discontent with one's own inferiority.

From Project Gutenberg

Self-flattery in so great and weighty a case, is the greatest folly.

From Project Gutenberg

And do you know—but it's all self-flattery I believe,—still I cannot help fancying the East wind does my head harm too!

From Project Gutenberg

In indulging his contempt for him, he unconsciously practised an innocent self-flattery.

From Project Gutenberg