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Megalomania: meaning, definitions and examples

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megalomania

 

[ ˌmɛɡəloʊˈmeɪniə ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

psychology disorder

Megalomania is a psychological condition characterized by delusional fantasies of power, wealth, or omnipotence. Individuals suffering from megalomania often have an inflated sense of their own importance and a need for admiration, which can lead to neglecting the feelings and needs of others.

Synonyms

delusions of grandeur, egotism, narcissism

Examples of usage

  • His megalomania made him believe he was destined to rule the world.
  • She exhibited signs of megalomania, considering herself above everyone else.
  • The megalomania of the dictator resulted in catastrophic decisions for his country.

Translations

Translations of the word "megalomania" in other languages:

🇵🇹 megalomania

🇮🇳 महानता का भ्रम

🇩🇪 Megalomanie

🇮🇩 megalomania

🇺🇦 мегаломанія

🇵🇱 megalomania

🇯🇵 メガロマニア

🇫🇷 mégalomanie

🇪🇸 megalomanía

🇹🇷 megalomani

🇰🇷 메가로마니아

🇸🇦 جنون العظمة

🇨🇿 megalomanie

🇸🇰 megalománia

🇨🇳 妄自尊大

🇸🇮 megalomanija

🇮🇸 megalómanía

🇰🇿 мегаломания

🇬🇪 მეგალომანია

🇦🇿 megalomaniya

🇲🇽 megalomanía

Etymology

The term 'megalomania' derives from the Greek words 'megalo-', meaning 'great' or 'large', and 'mania', meaning 'madness' or 'frenzy'. Its origins can be traced back to the early 20th century in clinical psychology, where it was used to describe certain types of psychosis characterized by an obsession with power and grandeur. Over time, megalomania has been utilized not only in psychological contexts but also in political discourse to describe leaders who exhibit tyrannical or grandiose behaviors. The term has evolved, often being referenced in literature and discussions about personality disorders, especially in relation to narcissism and authoritarianism. The fascination with megalomaniacs in culture and media has contributed to its continued relevance, reflecting societal concerns about the consequences of unchecked ambition and power.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,085 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.