Smugness

Smugness is a noun that refers to a self-satisfied feeling or attitude, often characterized by an excessive pride in one's achievements, possessions, or qualities. It is marked by an overconfident, complacent demeanor, suggesting that one considers oneself superior to others. This feeling can lead to a lack of empathy and understanding toward others' situations, as well as a tendency to dismiss or undermine viewpoints that differ from one's own. smugness can also manifest in condescension towards those perceived as less fortunate or accomplished.

Smugness meaning with examples

• After winning the prestigious award, Maria's smugness was apparent in her constant reminders to everyone around her of her achievement. She seemed oblivious to the hard work others put in and basked in the admiration without a hint of humility. Conversations devolved into one-sided recounting of her efforts, leaving her friends feeling unseen and undervalued, which ultimately led to their distancing from her. Her attitude transformed what could have been a celebration into an opportunity for boastfulness.
• During the meeting, Thomas displayed an air of smugness as he pointed out the team's mistakes while ignoring his own previous errors. His condescending remarks and eye-rolling aura irritated his coworkers, who felt belittled by his behavior. Rather than fostering teamwork, his smug demeanor sowed division and resentment. Many left the meeting feeling demoralized and frustrated, questioning the value of Thomas's leadership, which was overshadowed by his self-satisfied critique rather than constructive feedback.
• In her neighborhood, Claire's smugness about her newly renovated home led her to look down on her neighbors who lived in older houses. She often threw extravagant parties meant to showcase her decor and her taste, leaving her friends and neighbors feeling inadequate and envious. While Claire reveled in her social status, the alienation she inadvertently created began to turn her community against her, revealing the loneliness that often accompanies a smug, ostentatious lifestyle.
• At school, the smugness of one student often turned classmates against him. He would flaunt his grades and boast about being chosen for special programs, causing a rift in friendships. Rather than celebrating his success together, he made others feel lesser for not achieving the same accolades. Eventually, he realized that his smug attitude pushed people away, leading him to reflect on the importance of humility and the value of shared accomplishments over individual bragging rights.