Meaning & Definition of word "Complacency"

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    Complacency

    /kəmˈpleɪ.sən.si/

    noun:

    • 1. A feeling of smug or uncritical satisfaction with oneself or one's achievements.
      • Example: His complacency about getting good grades led him to stop studying.
    • 2. Self-satisfaction especially when accompanied by unawareness of actual dangers or deficiencies.
      • Example: The team's complacency after winning the championship ultimately cost them the title the following year.
    • 3. A general sense of contentment or a lack of concern about potential problems.
      • Example: Her complacency regarding her health made her ignore the warning signs.

    Etymology

    From Latin 'complacentia', meaning 'satisfaction'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    complacency kills:

    A warning that self-satisfaction can lead to failure or danger.

    in a state of complacency:

    Being unaware or uninterested in difficulties or dangers.

    complacent attitude:

    An outlook characterized by self-satisfaction or smugness.

    Related Words

    complacent:

    Showing smug or uncritical satisfaction with oneself.

    complacently:

    In a manner that is self-satisfied and unconcerned.

    self-satisfied:

    Satisfaction with oneself, especially to the exclusion of all others.

    Slang Meanings of complacency

    Meaning: Chill vibes

    Example Sentence: His chill vibes led him to be complacent about his studies.

    Meaning: Resting on one's laurels

    Example Sentence: She was resting on her laurels after her last success and showed real complacency.