self-flattery

[ self-flat-uh-ree, self- ]

noun

1. praise and exaggeration of one's own achievements coupled with a denial or glossing over of one's faults or failings; self-congratulation.

Other Words From

• self-flatter·ing adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of self-flattery¹

First recorded in 1670–80

Example Sentences

According to Will, however, the one purpose of wokeness is self-flattery, and its fires will soon be starved by its enforced orthodoxy.

From Washington Post

Wokeness has many flavors but one purpose: self-flattery.

From Washington Post

If not forgetting, then perhaps self-flattery is a motive.

From Washington Post

Fierstein’s dings are often dressed in self-flattery.

From Los Angeles Times

Despite all the self-flattery about being "pro-life," anti-choice activists are clearly motivated by misogyny, and don't care about "life."

From Salon