self-important

adjective

self-im·​por·​tant ˌself-im-ˈpȯr-tᵊnt 

-tənt

: having or showing self-importance

self-importantly adverb

Synonyms of self-important

• smug
• arrogant
• proud
• vain
• vainglorious
• conceited

Examples of self-important in a Sentence

a self-important businessman who believed his schedule mattered more than anyone else's

Recent Examples on the Web

Although the director’s overuse of foot-stomp transitions can feel a bit self-important — experimental for experimental’s sake — this is interesting theater of ideas. — Jared Kaufman, Twin Cities, 10 Aug. 2026

It’s dominated by a less than transparent booster, Eli James (Michael Hough), who comes with a self-important wife, Jemma (Mary Holland), and a pair of teenage twin girls who might be described as all dressed up with nowhere to go. — Robert Lloyd, Los Angeles Times, 9 July 2026

Self-righteous and self-important, priggish and nagging. — Amanda Whiting, Vulture, 6 May 2026

Only this time the interns are boring Gen Z stereotypes (obsessed with TikTok, too sensitive, too emotional, too self-important). — Kelly Lawler, USA Today, 25 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1732, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for self-important

• unimportant
• important