complacency
|com/pla/cen/cy|
B2
/kəmˈpleɪsənsi/
self-satisfaction
Etymology
Etymology Information
'complacency' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'complacentia,' where 'com-' meant 'with' and 'placere' meant 'to please.'
Historical Evolution
'complacentia' transformed into the French word 'complaisance,' and eventually became the modern English word 'complacency' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'pleasing or agreeable,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'self-satisfaction.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a feeling of self-satisfaction, especially when accompanied by unawareness of actual dangers or deficiencies.
His complacency about the risks of the project was concerning.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39