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.

“Ghislaine Maxwell is a proven self-serving liar,” McCawley said in a statement.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 23, 2026

As a 25-year high-school math teacher in Alameda, Calif., I’ve listened to all the specious, spurious, self-serving excuses for denying students and families educational choice.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 12, 2026

In a town — and a time — of selfishness and self-serving, Reiner was one of the good guys, always fighting, both through his films and his politics, to make the world kinder and closer.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 15, 2025

"Now he is focusing on local government which he believes is too self-serving and not very in touch with the people they are supposed to represent," said Sinclair.

From BBC • Dec. 2, 2025

Aside from her self-serving desire to travel, Regina insisted on being part of the tour because she didn’t trust one of its participants: the shifty-eyed Norman T. Whitaker.

From "Endgame" by Frank Brady

self-serving

Example Sentences

Related Words