Narcissistically Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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narcissistically
[ˌnɑːr.sɪ.sɪsˈtɪk.li ]
Definition
self-obsessed
In a way that shows an excessive interest in oneself and one's physical appearance.
Synonyms
egotistically, self-centeredly, self-indulgently.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| narcissistically |
Mentioned above, please see the entry for 'narcissistically'. |
| egotistically |
Used when someone is excessively conceited or absorbed in themselves; selfishly.
|
| self-centeredly |
Used when someone is preoccupied with themselves and their own needs or affairs.
|
| self-indulgently |
Used when someone does something that gratifies their own desires, often to excess, without regard for others.
|
Examples of usage
- She gazed narcissistically at her reflection in the mirror.
- He spoke narcissistically about his achievements during the interview.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is recognized in psychological literature, referring to a pattern of grandiosity and need for admiration.
- Individuals exhibiting narcissistic tendencies often struggle with empathy, making it hard for them to form deep connections with others.
- Narcissism can manifest in various forms, from healthy self-esteem to disruptive behaviors that affect relationships.
Pop Culture
- Many reality TV shows showcase narcissistic behavior, highlighting the obsession with fame and self-image.
- Certain celebrities have been labeled as narcissistic due to their public persona, showcasing self-obsession through actions and statements.
- Narcissism is often a theme in literature and movies where characters are depicted as self-absorbed, leading to their downfall or isolation.
Sociology
- The rise of social media has contributed to an increase in narcissistic behavior, with users often curating their lives to portray an enviable image.
- Studies suggest that younger generations may exhibit higher levels of narcissism, influenced by a culture of self-promotion and validation.
- Cultural attitudes towards individualism, particularly in Western societies, can perpetuate narcissistic traits.
History
- Historical figures like Alexander the Great and Julius Caesar displayed traits interpreted as narcissistic, linked to their ambition and leadership styles.
- In art, the theme of narcissism can be traced back to ancient sculptures and paintings depicting the love of self, signifying its long-standing presence in human expression.
- The depiction of Narcissus in art and literature has evolved over centuries, symbolizing varying societal values associated with self-love and vanity.
Origin of 'narcissistically'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from 'Narcissus,' a character in Greek mythology who fell in love with his own reflection, leading to the term for extreme self-love.
- First used in the psychological sense in the 20th century, it highlighted behaviors that indicated an inflated sense of self-importance.
- The suffix '-istically' generally describes how something is done, emphasizing the manner of self-love.
The adverb 'narcissistically' is derived from the word 'narcissistic', which originates from the Greek mythological figure Narcissus. According to the myth, Narcissus was a handsome youth who fell in love with his own reflection in a pool of water and eventually wasted away from unrequited love. The term 'narcissistic' was later coined by psychoanalyst Sigmund Freud to describe excessive self-love and admiration. The adverb 'narcissistically' is commonly used in psychology and social contexts to describe behavior characterized by a focus on oneself and one's own importance.