WordGarden.ionarcissistic
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /nˌɑːsɪsˈɪstɪk/
US
- /ˌnɑrsɪˈsɪstɪk/
Meanings
Adjective
excessively self-centered and self-important
relating to narcissism or narcissistic personality disorder in psychology
Beyond the definition
Imagine someone who always needs to be the center of attention, keeps talking about themselves, and seems unable to understand or care about other people's feelings. That gives you a good sense of what this word means. It comes from the Greek myth of Narcissus, a beautiful man who fell in love with his own reflection.
While everyone has some level of self-love, narcissistic behavior goes beyond healthy confidence. It can show up as an exaggerated sense of importance, a strong need for admiration, and little empathy. You might describe a celebrity obsessed with their public image this way, or someone who keeps bragging about their achievements. In psychology, Narcissistic Personality Disorder is a specific clinical diagnosis, but the word is also often used more broadly for very self-centered behavior.
The word narcissistic describes someone with excessive admiration for themselves and a strong focus on their own appearance, achievements, and importance. It stems from the Greek myth of Narcissus, who was so captivated by his reflection that he wasted away staring at it. While healthy self-esteem is important, narcissism goes beyond simply liking yourself; it involves an inflated sense of self-importance and a deep need for attention and admiration.
A narcissistic person often believes they are special and unique, deserving of preferential treatment. They may exploit others to get what they want, lack empathy (the ability to understand and share the feelings of others), and become easily upset when criticized. This isn't just about vanity; it's a pattern of behavior that can significantly impact relationships.
The term is frequently used in everyday language to describe someone who seems overly self-absorbed or arrogant—for example, "He gave a very narcissistic presentation, focusing entirely on his own accomplishments." However, narcissistic also has a specific meaning in psychology as Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD), a complex mental health condition diagnosed by professionals.
It's important to remember that labeling someone "narcissistic" should be done cautiously. While the term is often thrown around casually, true NPD requires professional evaluation. But whether describing a personality trait or a clinical disorder, narcissistic always points to an overwhelming focus on self and a diminished capacity for genuine connection with others.
Examples
- 1
Self-centered behavior
He was so narcissistic that he never asked anyone else about their life.
- 2
Online self-promotion
It felt a little narcissistic to put my own photo on every page of the website.
- 3
Apology tone
Her apology sounded narcissistic because she talked mostly about how the mistake affected her.
- 4
Conversation habits
He did not mean to come across as narcissistic, but he kept steering the conversation back to himself.
- Patterncome across as + adjective
seem that way to other people
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Corporate culture
The article criticized the company’s narcissistic culture, where every success was treated as proof of the CEO’s genius.
- 6
Mental health
Only a qualified professional can diagnose narcissistic personality disorder.
- Domainnarcissistic personality disorder
a formal mental health diagnosis
See also
Similar
- self-absorbed
- self-centered
- egotistical
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- narcissistic personality
- narcissistic behavior
- narcissistic abuse
Word family
Explore
- personality disorder
- lack of empathy
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- narcissisticadjective