SKIP TO CONTENT

self-proclaimed

/ˌˈsɛlf prəˌkleɪmd/
IPA guide

The adjective self-proclaimed means describing yourself in a certain way. Just because you're a self-proclaimed genius in the kitchen doesn't necessarily mean your family loves your creative recipes.

Being self-proclaimed means making an assertion about who you are or what you're skilled at. Sometimes that matches other people's perceptions: you're a self-proclaimed dog expert, and everyone comes to you for advice about their problematic pups. But often it stems from a skewed view of your own abilities. You may be a self-proclaimed Icelandic speaker, but if no one in Reykjavík can understand a word you say, it might be time to re-think the way you describe yourself!

Definitions of self-proclaimed
  1. adjective
    proclaimed to be or described as such by oneself, without endorsement by others
    self-proclaimed experts”
    synonyms:
    declared
    made known or openly avowed
Cite this entry
Style:
MLA
  • MLA
  • APA
  • Chicago

Copy citation
DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘self-proclaimed'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors. Send us feedback
Word Family