self-confidence

noun

self-con·​fi·​dence ˌself-ˈkän-fə-dən(t)s How to pronounce self-confidence (audio)
-ˌden(t)s
Synonyms of self-confidencenext
: confidence in oneself and in one's powers and abilities
self-confident adjective
self-confidently adverb

Examples of self-confidence in a Sentence

for so young a pianist, he has remarkable composure and self-confidence on stage
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
If Tovar’s belief in Beals remained consistent, Beals’ self-confidence increased this season. Michael Osipoff, Chicago Tribune, 11 June 2026 Children who see positive behaviors from their parents can develop self-confidence and higher self esteem. Taylor Grothe, Parents, 11 June 2026 By midmorning, the focus shifts to money, comfort and self-worth — your self-confidence is a superpower. Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 11 June 2026 Sincere desire is a thousand times stronger than self-confidence. Charlie Eccleshare, New York Times, 5 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for self-confidence

Word History

First Known Use

1604, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-confidence was in 1604

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Cite this Entry

“Self-confidence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-confidence. Accessed 17 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

self-confidence

noun
self-con·​fi·​dence
ˈself-ˈkän-fəd-ən(t)s
-fə-ˌden(t)s
: confidence in oneself and in one's powers and abilities
self-confident
-fəd-ənt
-fə-ˌdent
adjective
self-confidently adverb

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