self-esteem

noun

self-es·​teem ˌself-ə-ˈstēm 

1

: a confidence and satisfaction in oneself : self-respect

2

: self-conceit

Synonyms of self-esteem

• pride
• pridefulness
• confidence
• ego
• self-respect

Examples of self-esteem in a Sentence

friends and family have tried to help the shy child develop some self-esteem

his towering self-esteem made praise from other people entirely unnecessary

the kind of self-esteem that a struggling actor needs to keep going in the face of constant discouragement and rejection

Recent Examples on the Web

Her Camp Katina empowers young girls in South Florida through gymnastics, confidence-building workshops and mentorship focused on self-esteem and healthy living. —Nasha Smith, PEOPLE, 14 Nov. 2025

Why look for friends or partners who will just shore up your self-esteem instead of ones who will also challenge you to grow? —Big Think, 14 Nov. 2025

Scarborough also started a program for girls ages 12 and up to cultivate self-esteem and grow their confidence. —Jen Christensen, CNN Money, 10 Nov. 2025

Recent scientific studies have found that horticultural therapy promotes creativity, self-esteem, social interaction and sensory stimulation. —The San Diego Union Tribune, San Diego Union-Tribune, 8 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1619, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for self-esteem

• academe
• cherubim
• elohim
• episteme
• seraphim
• abeam
• airstream
• bloodstream
• daydream
• downstream
• esteem
• extreme

Kids Definition

self-esteem

noun

self-es·​teem

ˌsel-fə-ˈstēm

1

: a confidence and satisfaction in oneself : self-respect

2

: an exaggerated opinion of one's own abilities : self-conceit