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

This is where the concept of intelligent selfishness comes into play. —Chris Schembra, Rolling Stone, 5 Sep. 2024

This sort of selfishness incites resentment, and rightfully so! —Jennifer Culp, Them, 31 July 2024

But when the financial sector and the people within it are forced to choose between selfishness and the greater good, Industry eloquently argues, selfishness must win out every time. —Judy Berman, TIME, 2 Aug. 2024

That rash of selfishness, paired with her penchant for chaotic storytelling, is why she is destined to succeed on reality television, even as the rest of the cast around her flails. —Shamira Ibrahim, Vulture, 24 Mar. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1628, in the meaning defined above