Self-pleased

Describing a person who derives satisfaction, contentment, or gratification primarily from themselves, their achievements, or their perceived superiority. It often implies a degree of smugness, arrogance, or complacency. This individual may exhibit an excessive level of self-satisfaction, leading to a lack of genuine humility or empathy towards others. They might be highly concerned with their own image and accomplishments, sometimes to the exclusion of the needs or feelings of those around them. Being self-pleased frequently manifests in actions and expressions reflecting a feeling of superiority and a tendency to be overly confident in their own abilities and judgments, and they revel in their own success and accomplishments.

Self-pleased meaning with examples

• After winning the competition, the athlete was noticeably self-pleased, constantly boasting about their victory and downplaying the efforts of their competitors. Their smug demeanor and unwavering belief in their own superiority made it difficult for others to congratulate them genuinely. They seemed more concerned with their own triumph than with showing respect or humility towards those who participated.
• The self-pleased author couldn't stop talking about the positive reviews of their latest book, frequently quoting praise and dismissing any criticisms as irrelevant. They clearly derived immense satisfaction from the public accolades and displayed a sense of being untouchable and above reproach when discussing the book. This pride led to many not wanting to offer input or critique.
• The politician's self-pleased smile and condescending tone during the debate alienated many viewers. Their consistent display of arrogance and the constant assumption of knowing best came across as patronizing, and did nothing to further their platform. Rather, it made people tune out and not give them another chance, and did nothing to help win over potential voters.
• Despite their limited contribution to the project, the team lead seemed quite self-pleased, taking credit for the collective effort and basking in the positive outcome. Their self-congratulatory attitude and failure to acknowledge the contributions of their colleagues created an atmosphere of resentment and discord within the work group.
• Her self-pleased reaction to a minor success, complete with excessive self-congratulations and theatrical gestures, was slightly off-putting. Her actions and attitude implied a level of self-importance disproportionate to the achievement, making it difficult for others to share in or even acknowledge her sense of pride and happiness.