inferiority complex

American  

[in-feer-ee-awr-i-tee kom-pleks, -or-] / ɪnˌfɪər iˈɔr ɪ ti ˌkɒm plɛks, -ˈɒr- /

noun

Psychology.

1. an intense feeling of inferiority or inadequacy; low self-esteem, sometimes characterized by compensatory behaviors intended to bolster self-confidence.

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inferiority complex British  

noun

1. psychiatry a disorder arising from the conflict between the desire to be noticed and the fear of being humiliated, characterized by aggressiveness or withdrawal into oneself

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Etymology

Origin of inferiority complex

First recorded in 1920–25

Compare meaning

How does inferiority-complex compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• superiority complex vs. inferiority complex

Example Sentences

"There was no inferiority complex from Grimsby, far from it. If anything it was the other way around."

From BBC

But more importantly, he's changed the perception around a team that had always been known for an inferiority complex that held them back in the past.

From BBC

While reigning champions Canada rank second in the world, there is no reason for Britain to have an inferiority complex.

From BBC

If you thought they were beefing over some rapper inferiority complexes — you were wrong.

From Salon

“There’s so many people that have an inferiority complex about, ‘We’re the University of Houston.’

From Seattle Times