gloat
UK: ɡləʊt | US: ɡloʊt
vi. to dwell on one's own success or another's misfortune with smugness or malice
vt. (rare) to observe or think about something with excessive satisfaction
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The word "gloat" traces back to Old Norse glotta, meaning "to grin or smile scornfully." It entered Middle English as glouten, originally describing a scornful or smug facial expression. Over time, the meaning shifted to emphasize the mental act of relishing one's advantage or another's downfall, though the connotation of visual scrutiny (e.g., "gloating over trophies") persists. The word’s evolution reflects a blend of physical expression and psychological indulgence.
She tried not to gloat after winning the debate.
He gloated over his rival’s failed business venture.
The team gloated about their victory for weeks.
Gloating at others’ mistakes is unkind.
Despite his success, he avoided gloating to maintain humility.