self-respect

noun

self-re·​spect ˌself-ri-ˈspekt How to pronounce self-respect (audio)
1
: a proper respect for oneself as a human being
2
: regard for one's own standing or position

Examples of self-respect in a Sentence

getting a job and moving out of his parents' house did a lot to increase his self-respect
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.
Approximately 25 artists were highlighted in the book that aims to encompass the nonprofit’s core values: inspiring artistic expression, building community, promoting self-respect and developing independence. Cam'ron Hardy, Chicago Tribune, 25 Aug. 2025 My partner’s refusal to be comforted by this institutional food struck me sometimes as pointlessly obstructive and at other times as a sign of self-respect. Rachel Cusk, New Yorker, 24 Aug. 2025 Having a plan asserts self-respect as much as maturity. Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 4 Aug. 2025 But his smiling at Black people on the street felt false and condescending, rooted in a wish to be accepted into this neighborhood of elegant brownstones and a quick subway line to Manhattan, while also cohabiting with Ulla, who was essential to his self-respect. Kiran Desai, New Yorker, 3 Aug. 2025 But don’t forget that true leadership starts with self-respect. Meghan Rose, Glamour, 1 Aug. 2025 That party’s reputation for fiscal responsibility has vanished, along with any right to self-respect. Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 3 July 2025 Your outlook on self-worth, self-respect, and security will deepen in the second week of July. Liz Simmons, StyleCaster, 24 June 2025 Just remember, being honest doesn’t mean compromising your self-respect. Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 12 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1765, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-respect was in 1765

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Self-respect.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-respect. Accessed 31 Aug. 2025.

Kids Definition

self-respect

noun
self-re·​spect
ˌsel-fri-ˈspekt
1
: a proper respect for oneself as a human being
2
: regard for one's own standing or position
self-respecting
-ˈspek-tiŋ
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on self-respect

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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