Definitions

self-satisfied

[self-sat-is-fahyd, self-] / ˈsɛlfˈsæt ɪsˌfaɪd, ˌsɛlf- /

ADJECTIVE

pleased with oneself

Synonyms

STRONGEST

arrogant smug

WEAK

bigheaded complacent conceited content egotistic flushed full of oneself pleased proud puffed up self-congratulatory vain

Antonyms

WEAK

humble meek unsure

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Though scrupulously executed, they often look self-satisfied and rhetorical.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 1, 2026

Several of the figures rest a self-satisfied hand at the apex of their bump.

From Slate • Jul. 21, 2025

Look at that self-satisfied smile on his face.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 10, 2025

And yes, it's hard not to look at these self-satisfied moral monsters without feeling despair.

From Salon • May 18, 2024

Everyone who lived here said those things: provincial, self-satisfied, boring.

From "Cat's Eye" by Margaret Atwood