vananemesis

Vananemesis is a portmanteau word combining "vanity" and "nemesis," generally referring to a person's downfall or undoing due to their excessive pride or preoccupation with their own appearance or perceived superiority. It describes a situation where an individual's vanity becomes the very source of their defeat, embarrassment, or failure. This can manifest in various contexts, from personal relationships and professional endeavors to public life.

The concept suggests that an inflated ego, fueled by vanity, can lead to poor judgment, a disregard for others' opinions or capabilities, and an underestimation of challenges. When circumstances inevitably arise that contradict the vain individual's self-perception, their pride can prevent them from adapting or seeking help, ultimately leading to their downfall. This downfall is not arbitrary but directly linked to the flaws inherent in their vanity.

Examples of vananemesis can be found in literature, history, and everyday life. A character who believes themselves invincible due to their looks might be outsmarted by a less conventionally attractive but more cunning adversary. Similarly, a public figure whose arrogance is well-known might face severe criticism or loss of support after a public gaffe that exposes their inflated self-image. The core idea is that the very trait someone cherishes and relies upon becomes their undoing.