egotism
UK[ˈiːɡəʊtɪzəm]US[ˈiːɡoʊtɪzəm]
n
the tendency to think and talk too much about oneself; self-centeredness.
n
the practice of talking about oneself excessively because of an undue sense of self-importance.
Morpheme Breakdown
ego
ism
ego
i, the self
ism
Etymology
the word 'egotism' is a modern english formation, directly combining the latin pronoun 'ego', meaning "i", with the greek-derived suffix '-ism'. the latin 'ego' itself originates from the proto-indo-european root éǵh₂, also meaning "i", which is the source of the first-person singular pronoun across many indo-european languages. the suffix '-ism' was adopted into english via latin from greek, where it formed nouns indicating a state, practice, or doctrine. therefore, 'egotism' literally translates to "the doctrine or practice of the i," logically evolving to denote the habit of excessively focusing on and prioritizing one's own self.
Analysis
Structure: ego + ism
ego: from latin 'ego', meaning "i, the self". serves as the root noun denoting the self.
ism: from greek '-ismos', a suffix forming nouns of action, state, or doctrine. indicates a distinctive practice, system, or philosophy.
Examples
his egotism made it difficult for him to maintain lasting friendships.
the biography was criticized for its author's blatant egotism.
true confidence is quiet, while egotism is loud and insecure.