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

And a lot of them have the same thing, which is just like, there is a sort of narcissism a little bit, selfishness. —H. Alan Scott, Newsweek, 5 Mar. 2025

Not in the same universe of selfishness and greediness 😂 N Niko K. · 8h 20m ago Ronaldo has five Ballon d‘Ors as well as five Champions League titles. —Thom Harris, The Athletic, 20 Feb. 2025

Ju-a calls Si-jun out for his selfishness—both during the years of their romantic relationship, and now. —Kayti Burt, TIME, 14 Feb. 2025

Your article exemplifies the stupidity and selfishness of those ruling California’s Democratic Party. —Letters To The Editor, The Mercury News, 7 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1628, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for selfishness

• unselfishness