self-aggrandizement

American  

[self-uh-gran-diz-muhnt, self-] / ˈsɛlf əˈgræn dɪz mənt, ˌsɛlf- /

noun

1. increase of one's own power, wealth, etc., usually aggressively.

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self-aggrandizement British  

noun

1. the act of increasing one's own power, importance, etc, esp in an aggressive or ruthless manner

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Other Word Forms

• self-aggrandizing adjective

Etymology

Origin of self-aggrandizement

First recorded in 1790–1800

Example Sentences

Presenting Nyad’s back story largely through archival clips, the film depicts her as a hard-charging force of nature with a penchant for occasional boastfulness and self-aggrandizement.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 3, 2023

“When we aspire to be a leading power, this is not for self-aggrandizement, but to take on greater responsibility and make more contributions,” he said.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 26, 2023

No. Rather are they stuck in, and prefer to remain in, an infinite loop of unfettered self-absorption, self-promotion, self-interestedness, self-indulgence and self-aggrandizement.

From Salon • Sep. 10, 2023

The film’s virtuosity is evident in every frame, but this is virtuosity without self-aggrandizement.

From New York Times • Jul. 19, 2023

Though self-aggrandizement was de rigueur among the generalissimos of the time, he remained ever cautious.

From "Circumference" by Nicholas Nicastro

Related Words

• arrogance
• narcissism
• self-absorption
• selfishness