self-satisfaction

[ self-sat-is-fak-shuh n ]

/ ˈsɛlfˌsæt ɪsˈfæk ʃən /

a usually smug satisfaction with oneself, one's achievements, etc.

Origin of self-satisfaction

First recorded in 1785–95

Those who had received the actual drug reported better levels of self-satisfaction than the unfortunates who just got the placebo.

Kythera Helps You Melt Your Double Chin, No Diet or Surgery Required |Daniel Gross |September 17, 2013 |DAILY BEAST
Occasionally it crosses the line of self-satisfaction, as if to lament that the world is full of innumerate mouth-breathers.

Nate Silver is a Nerd - And He Does Math! |Justin Green |October 30, 2012 |DAILY BEAST
Resist the easy comforts of complacency, the specious glitter of materialism, the narcotic paralysis of self-satisfaction.

David McCullough at Wellesley Commencement: ‘You Are Not Special’ (Video) |The Daily Beast |June 9, 2012 |DAILY BEAST
In her demeanor, Rebekah Brooks would seem to be a new phenomenon—a person unable to conceal the depths of her self-satisfaction.

How British Tabloids Lost Their Way |Howard Jacobson |July 22, 2011 |DAILY BEAST

At other times, a Democratic bout of self-satisfaction has merely made the party or the particular officeholder look craven.

Mass Arrogance |Bryan Curtis |January 20, 2010 |DAILY BEAST
She did realize it perfectly; but she resented a compliment that was inspired by self-satisfaction.

The Vanity Girl |Compton Mackenzie
This warmed the coldest of them—with a glow of self-satisfaction.

Poppy |Cynthia Stockley
Her good-humour and self-satisfaction made the evening pass merrily.

Elder Conklin |Frank Harris
The even tenor of his lot in life did not produce in him self-satisfaction and complacency, but often did make him uneasy.

Frank H. Nelson of Cincinnati |Warren C. Herrick
They are so proud of their accomplishments that they rust in self-satisfaction.

Certain Success |Norval A. Hawkins