self-congratulation

noun

self-con·​grat·​u·​la·​tion ˌself-kən-ˌgra-chə-ˈlā-shən How to pronounce self-congratulation (audio)
-ˌgra-jə-
Synonyms of self-congratulationnext
: congratulation of oneself
especially : a complacent acknowledgment of one's own superiority or good fortune

Synonyms of self-congratulation

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Examples of self-congratulation in a Sentence

the air of self-congratulation that pervades the songwriter's memoirs
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
That is why this moment demands smarter policy choices, not self-congratulation. — Editorial, Boston Herald, 12 Jan. 2026 Anima's version involves more effort and less self-congratulation. — Daniel Scheffler, Forbes.com, 31 Mar. 2026 Rutte told attendees that the move wasn’t a moment for self-congratulations as Russia continues its large-scale drone and missile attacks on Ukraine. — Ashley Carnahan, FOXNews.com, 11 Dec. 2025 Played with aplomb by newcomer Kevin de Paula, the striker’s nifty footwork, rooted in the tradition of ginga, speaks louder than any self-congratulations. — Jon O'Brien, Vulture, 26 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for self-congratulation

Word History

First Known Use

1655, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-congratulation was in 1655

Rhymes for self-congratulation

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Browse Nearby Words

self-confrontation
self-congratulation
self-congratulatory
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Cite this Entry

“Self-congratulation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-congratulation. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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