self-aggrandizement
|self-ag-grand-ize-ment|
/ˌsɛlfəˈɡrændɪzmənt/
(self-aggrandize)
enhance self-status
Etymology
'self-aggrandizement' is formed in modern English from the prefix 'self-' plus 'aggrandizement'. 'Aggrandize' originates from French and earlier via English formation, where 'ag-' (from Latin 'ad-') meant 'to' or 'toward' and 'grand' (from Old French/Latin) meant 'great'.
'Aggrandize' entered English in the 17th century from French 'agrandir'/'aggrandir' (to make larger), itself from Latin roots 'ad-' (to) + 'grandis' (great); English then formed the noun 'aggrandizement' and combined it with 'self-' to create 'self-aggrandizement'.
Initially related to making something greater or enlarging (literal or figurative), it evolved to commonly mean the promotion of one’s own importance; the self-directed sense emphasized personal boastfulness over time.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the act or practice of promoting oneself as being more powerful, important, or influential than is justified; excessive self-promotion or self-exaltation.
His constant self-aggrandizement alienated many colleagues.
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Verb 1
noun form derived from the verb 'self-aggrandize' — the act of making oneself appear greater or more powerful.
The politician’s self-aggrandizement became a focus of the campaign.
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Last updated: 2025/11/28 15:41