What does egomaniacally mean?
Egomaniacally means in the manner of an egomaniac: with exaggerated concern for oneself, one's importance, or one's achievements. It is especially appropriate when describing speech or conduct that appears to be organized around self-interest, vanity, or a need for recognition. The word can suggest that a person is so absorbed in their own perspective that the contributions, feelings, or interests of others become secondary. It is generally more severe and psychologically specific than simply saying that someone acted selfishly or arrogantly, and it commonly carries a strongly negative, critical tone. Although used in both British and American English, the word is relatively formal and is more likely to appear in literary, analytical, or argumentative contexts than in casual conversation. It can describe an individual, a group, or a pattern of institutional behavior, provided that self-centered pride and excessive self-importance are intended.
adverbIn the manner of an egomaniac; with excessive or self-centered concern for oneself, often accompanied by arrogance or an inflated sense of importance.
- In the manner of an egomaniac; with excessive self-concern, self-importance, or arrogance.
"She dismissed the team's achievements egomaniacally, as though the project had succeeded only because of her own ideas."
"He continued to speak egomaniacally, treating every discussion as an opportunity to praise his own career."
"The committee rejected the proposal because it had been designed egomaniacally, with one executive's preferences taking priority over everyone else's."
The word names a very specific kind of self-centeredness: not simply selfishness, but conduct organized around an inflated sense of personal importance.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does egomaniacally come from?
The word belongs to modern English and is formed from 'egomaniac' plus the adverbial suffix '-ally'. 'Ego' comes ultimately from Latin ego, meaning 'I', while 'mania' derives through Greek from a word associated with madness or intense enthusiasm. Related forms include egomaniac, egomania, and egomaniacal; the latter is the adjective from which the adverb is formed.
Related word forms
How egomaniacally is actually used
The word is strongly derogatory and generally describes behavior, speech, attitudes, or ambitions. It is more pointed than 'arrogantly' because it implies an exaggerated concern with oneself and personal importance.
Easily confused with egomaniacally
No distinct meaning is usually implied; the main potential confusion is with the less common adjective 'egomaniacal'.