Complacent

Pronunciation

Homophones: complaisant

Origin

From Latin complacens ("very pleasing"), present participle of complacere ("to please at the same time, be very pleasing"), from com- ("together") + placere ("to please"); see please and compare complaisant.

Full definition of complacent

Adjective

complacent

Uncritically satisfied with oneself or one's achievements; smug.
Apathetic with regard to an apparent need or problem.

Usage notes

Complacent should not be confused with its homophone, complaisant.