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Meaning of smugness
The primary meaning of the word "smugness" is a feeling of self-satisfaction or complacency, often accompanied by a sense of superiority over others.
Etymology of smugness
The word "smugness" has its roots in the mid-17th century, derived from the word "smug", which meant "neat" or "tidy" in Dutch and German
Over time, the meaning of "smug" shifted to convey a sense of self-satisfaction or complacency, and the suffix "-ness" was added to form the noun "smugness", which refers to the state or quality of being smug
Synonyms
complacency
self-satisfaction
pride
arrogance
haughtiness
conceit
smug
conceitedness
pompousness
pretentiousness
affectedness
superiority
condescension
patronization
insolence
impertinence
hauteur
loftiness
self-importance
egotism
narcissism
vaingloriousness
boastfulness
pridefulness
self-complacency
self-contentment
satisfaction
contentment
pleasure
delight
gratification
complacentness
self-congratulation
gloating
triumphalism
elation
exultation
jubilation
triumph
Definitions
- A feeling of self-satisfaction or complacency, especially when this is felt to be unjustified or irritating to others
- An excessive pride in oneself or one's achievements, often accompanied by a lack of humility or modesty
Usage Examples
- The politician's smugness during the debate was off-putting to many viewers, who felt that she was not taking the issues seriously enough
- The company's smugness about its success led it to become complacent and neglect emerging trends in the market
- The teacher's smugness about her own intelligence made her come across as condescending and unhelpful to her students
Antonyms
humility
modesty
self-doubt
uncertainty
insecurity
hesitation
diffidence
timidity
bashfulness
shyness
embarrassment
guilt
remorse
regret
self-deprecation
humility
meekness
unpretentiousness
simplicity
unassumingness
lowliness
abasement