SELF-FLAGELLATING Synonyms: 64 Similar and Opposite Words

self-flagellating

adjective

as in altruistic

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of self-flagellating At times, Carol’s admirable rebelliousness seems to come at the cost of self-flagellating destruction, a badge of honor to be miserable. — Natalie Oganesyan, Deadline, 8 Nov. 2025

Recent Examples of Synonyms for self-flagellating

Adjective

And Sanders is credited as an altruistic, creative genius by diners, influencers and the media.

— Katelyn Umholtz, Kansas City Star, 15 Sep. 2026
On a more altruistic front, Leighton also stands ready to end a gruesome pandemic in another world, turning up with vaccines and medications like a multidimensional DoorDash service.

— Scott Tobias, Vulture, 11 Sep. 2026

Definition of altruistic

Adjective

After graduation, Harry took a gap year to carry out humanitarian work in Africa (particularly with children in Lesotho), Australia, and Latin America.

— Annabelle Dufraigne, Architectural Digest, 29 Sep. 2026
That 2019 model was a toy next to today’s systems, which terrorist groups could use to reach a broader audience with a more convincing message, posing as humanitarian nongovernmental organizations or even just influencers to raise money.

— Jason M. Blazakis, The Conversation, 28 Sep. 2026

Definition of humanitarian

Adjective

Some billionaires have also pledged philanthropic contributions.

— ABC News, ABC News, 22 July 2026
That would have been even a few more million bucks on top of what already looks more like a philanthropic civic act more than a savvy investment on Tullman’s impassioned part, but an enthusiastic punter can dream.

— Chris Jones, Chicago Tribune, 20 July 2026

Definition of philanthropic

Adjective

Lucia is a largely benevolent force, found in the hospital casebook’s endless descriptive lines.

— Doireann Ní Ghríofa, Literary Hub, 24 Sep. 2026
With new ownership, the Lakers’ braintrust no longer has the protection of the benevolent Buss family or the baseball-centric Mark Walter.

— Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 24 Sep. 2026

Definition of benevolent

Adjective

Anyone who tries to pass will have our self-sacrificing heroes in the IRGC Navy and Army set their ships on fire.

— Brady Knox, The Washington Examiner, 3 Mar. 2026
There’s the self-sacrificing Texas teenager who’s helping her mom make ends meet by cashing out her own college fund.

— Jason Linkins, The New Republic, 25 Feb. 2023

Definition of self-sacrificing

Adjective

Stagg coach Mike Kealy named Woznik a captain during summer training, acknowledging his natural leadership and selfless play.

— Patrick Z. McGavin, Chicago Tribune, 23 Sep. 2026
Nehemiah’s selfless leadership benefited his Jewish community in many ways.

— The Christian Science Monitor, Christian Science Monitor, 14 Sep. 2026

Definition of selfless

Adjective

Like Congress passing campaign-finance regulation actually is like a pretty self-denying thing Congress has done.

— David Frum, The Atlantic, 3 June 2026
The tension between the self-denying demands of being a Kennedy wife and Carolyn’s assured self-determination sets the framework for this love story.

— Rafaela Bassili, Vulture, 13 Feb. 2026

Definition of self-denying

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“Self-flagellating.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/self-flagellating. Accessed 1 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of self-flagellating

adjective

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