superiority complex

[ suh-peer-ee-awr-i-tee kom-pleks, -or-, soo- ]

noun

, Psychology.

1. an exaggerated feeling of superiority to others, characterized by arrogant or overbearing behavior. Compare God complex ( def ), inferiority complex ( def ).

superiority complex

noun

1. informal.
   an inflated estimate of one's own merit, usually manifested in arrogance

Word History and Origins

Origin of superiority complex¹

First recorded in 1920–25

Example Sentences

Like Joseph, Gurowski displayed a relentless superiority complex, eviscerating pretty much everyone in the Federal government.

From The Daily Beast

You know, that grinning skull we have stuck up all over the place to bolster up our superiority complex.

From Project Gutenberg

The superiority complex found in group known as science fiction fans is probably unequalled anywhere.

From Project Gutenberg

The first step in conquering this superiority complex is to realize that it is there.

From Project Gutenberg

There is one more thing we need to do in conquering that superiority complex.

From Project Gutenberg