self-conscious

adjective

self-con·​scious ˌself-ˈkän(t)-shəs 

1

a

: conscious of one's own acts or states as belonging to or originating in oneself : aware of oneself as an individual

b

: intensely aware of oneself : conscious

a rising and self-conscious social class

also : produced or done with such awareness

self-conscious art

2

: uncomfortably conscious of oneself as an object of the observation of others : ill at ease

self-consciously adverb

self-consciousness noun

Examples of self-conscious in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Others, however, may feel self-conscious, overwhelmed by the sensory overload – all the textures, commotion and bright colors, not to mention people staring at them. —Angela J. Narayan, The Conversation, 19 Dec. 2025

Some children may feel self-conscious about their choice, while others instantly embrace their new look. —Matthew Kayser, Ascend Agency, 19 Dec. 2025

The Zohns felt self-conscious, judged, and often unwelcome. —Lisa Hughes, CBS News, 19 Dec. 2025

Many people describe feeling self-conscious or embarrassed about uneven tone or dullness. —Sherri Gordon, Parents, 18 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1632, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for self-conscious

• conscious
• preconscious
• subconscious
• unconscious

Kids Definition

self-conscious

adjective

self-con·​scious

ˈself-ˈkän-chəs

: uncomfortably conscious of oneself as an object of the observation of others

self-consciously adverb

self-consciousness noun