A form of overcompensation wherein an individual, due to feelings of inferiority, formulates grandiose aspirations for future achievement despite lacking proper talent, experience, and/or personal connections. Such a person often exhibits elitism fueled by hubris and detachment from social reality.
Keith: "What's up with him? Ever since he got back from Edinburgh, he's been acting like a complete asshole."

Kraig: "His ego's gotten bigger due to an Icarus Complex. He'll crash and burn most likely."
by Anti-Classist 2012 February 3, 2012
Get the Icarus Complex mug.