counter-egotistic
|coun-ter-e-go-tis-tic|
🇺🇸
/ˌkaʊn.tɚ.iːˌɡəˈtɪs.tɪk/
🇬🇧
/ˌkaʊn.tə.riːˌɡəˈtɪs.tɪk/
against egotism / anti-self-centeredness
Etymology
'counter-egotistic' originates from Modern English as a compound of the prefix 'counter-' (from Latin-based usage meaning 'against' or 'opposed to') and 'egotistic' (from 'ego' meaning 'I' + adjectival suffix '-istic').
'counter-' developed in English from Latin 'contra' through Old French and Middle English in the sense 'against'; 'egotistic' derives from 'ego' (Latin 'I') combined with the adjective-forming element '-istic' (via Greek/Latin/French formation), producing 'egotistic' in modern English, and the two elements were combined in Modern English to form 'counter-egotistic'.
Initially the components meant 'against' (counter-) and 'relating to the self/I' (ego); combined as 'counter-egotistic' the meaning evolved to denote opposition to self-centeredness or behavior that counters egotism.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the quality or practice of being counter-egotistic; behavior or attitude that opposes egotism (formation: counter-egotism).
Counter-egotism in leadership can foster collaboration and trust.
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Adjective 1
opposed to or running counter to egotism; showing little or no self-centeredness; modest or self-effacing.
Her counter-egotistic manner made her teammates feel respected and heard.
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Adjective 2
intentionally acting to counter or reduce displays of egotism — e.g., behavior designed to balance or oppose self-promoting attitudes.
His counter-egotistic gestures at the ceremony were meant to highlight the group's work rather than his own.
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Last updated: 2025/10/26 10:08