Definitions

self-serving

[self-sur-ving] / ˈsɛlfˈsɜr vɪŋ /

ADJECTIVE

egotistic

Synonyms

STRONGEST

boastful pompous self-absorbed selfish subjective

WEAK

affected aloof autocratic boasting bragging conceited egocentric egoistic egoistical egomaniacal egotistical haughty individualistic inflated inner-directed intimate intrinsic introverted isolated narcissistic obsessive opinionated personal prideful proud puffed up self-admiring self-centered self-important self-involved self-seeking snobbish stuck on oneself stuck-up superior swollen vain vainglorious wrapped up in oneself

Antonyms

STRONGEST

modest

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.

The harder part is holding on to that judgment when tempted with a plausible and self-serving explanation.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 27, 2026

It is not much more than a piece of paper generated in a self-serving way by ICE, free of review to substantiate what is stated in it.

From Salon • Jan. 23, 2026

Rodgers resigned in late October amid accusations from major shareholder Dermot Desmond of "divisive, misleading, and self-serving" behaviour.

From BBC • Jan. 2, 2026

The firm said any allegations of unethical practices were the result of “disgruntled former employees ... who have ulterior self-serving motives.”

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 31, 2025

He’s not one of those overly social, back-slapping types for whom the process of acquiring acquaintances is obvious and self-serving.

From "The Tipping Point" by Malcolm Gladwell

self-serving

Example Sentences

Related Words