self-respect

noun

self-re·​spect ˌself-ri-ˈspekt 

1

: a proper respect for oneself as a human being

2

: regard for one's own standing or position

Synonyms of self-respect

• pride
• pridefulness
• confidence

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

Choosing a real destination that honors market realities is an act of self-respect. — Daren Smith, IndieWire, 24 June 2026

Recognition is nice, but self-respect is everything, Scorpio. — Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 19 June 2026

This pattern, often rooted in childhood experiences, appears virtuous but ultimately diminishes self-respect and well-being. — Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 17 June 2026

To me, this is ultimately also a lack of self-respect, of not having sufficient pride in your own work to do this very basic, very necessary thing. — John Warner, Chicago Tribune, 30 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1765, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for self-respect

• architect
• circumspect
• deselect
• dialect
• disconnect
• disinfect
• disrespect
• incorrect
• indirect
• intellect
• interject
• intersect

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