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Synonyms

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.


self-aggrandizement British  

noun

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

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms


Etymology

Origin of self-aggrandizement

First recorded in 1790–1800


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:

American life has become suffused with the results of his self-aggrandizement.

From Slate ● Jun. 2, 2026

As a surly, teenage combination of self-aggrandizement and self-doubt, she is the instantly recognizable character that makes the rest of the world believable.

From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 20, 2025

And after years of flaunting ostentatious success and being denied her phoenix survivor era, “Where is Wendy Williams?” might give her that, along with a purpose beyond retribution, redemption or self-aggrandizement.

From Salon ● Feb. 23, 2024

“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

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

From "Circumference" by Nicholas Nicastro

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