selfishness

noun

self·​ish·​ness ˈsel-fish-nəs 

: the quality or state of being selfish : a concern for one's own welfare or advantage at the expense of or in disregard of others : excessive interest in oneself

We were appalled by the selfishness of their behavior.

Thus most of us are hardwired to conform to a "core morality" that includes protecting our children, dealing more or less fairly with other people, and placing limits on our selfishness.

—Christopher R. Beha

Synonyms

• egocentricity
• egocentrism
• egoism
• egomania
• egotism
• narcissism
• navel-gazing
• self-absorption
• self-centeredness
• self-concern
• self-interest
• self-involvement
• self-preoccupation
• self-regard
• selfness

Examples of selfishness in a Sentence

the only reason for constantly ignoring everyone else's problems is selfishness

Recent Examples on the Web

In contrast, healthy selfishness is associated with greater psychological well-being, higher self-esteem and more positive relationships. —Mark Travers, Forbes, 20 Sep. 2024

But what if selfishness—when approached in the right way—could actually be beneficial? —Mark Travers, Forbes, 20 Sep. 2024

The through line in these missteps, as Smith sees it, is selfishness, which is an unattractive trait in any workplace. —Morgan Smith, CNBC, 16 Sep. 2024

Any dignified motivations that had once held sway—making art for art’s sake, acting to minimize suffering—became smoke screens to distract others from my selfishness. —Manvir Singh, The New Yorker, 9 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1628, in the meaning defined above