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

It is easy to make fun of him and his comic self-aggrandizement.

From Salon

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

But he adds that “wielding power and mining the force of the institution for self-aggrandizement weren’t unique to the Reagan White House.”

From Los Angeles Times

He framed humor as an act of self-aggrandizement premised on the debasement of others.

From Salon

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

Related Words

• arrogance
• narcissism
• self-absorption
• selfishness