self-serving
|self/serv/ing|
C1
🇺🇸
/ˌsɛlfˈsɜrvɪŋ/
🇬🇧
/ˌsɛlfˈsɜːvɪŋ/
self-interest
Etymology
Etymology Information
'self-serving' originates from the combination of 'self' and 'serve,' where 'self' refers to one's own person and 'serve' means to provide for or satisfy.
Historical Evolution
'self-serving' evolved from the concept of serving one's own interests, which has been a part of English since the late 19th century.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'serving oneself,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'acting in one's own interest, often at the expense of others.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
concerned with one's own interests, often at the expense of others.
His self-serving attitude made him unpopular among his colleagues.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45