self-esteem

noun

self-es·​teem ˌself-ə-ˈstēm How to pronounce self-esteem (audio)
Synonyms of self-esteemnext
1
: a confidence and satisfaction in oneself : self-respect
2

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
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If anything, a creative idea, financial choice or self-esteem issue could trigger an awakening. Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 11 June 2026 People with bipolar disorder cycle through extended periods of mania and depression, often accompanied by grandiosity or elevated self-esteem during manic phases. Angela Haupt, Time, 11 June 2026 Most people subjected to conversion practices experience negative effects, including depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and social isolation, as well as substance use and other self-destructive behaviors. Britannica Editors, Encyclopedia Britannica, 10 June 2026 These can all hurt a woman’s self-concept, which shapes identity, self-image and self-esteem. Helen Carefoot, Flow Space, 4 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for self-esteem

Word History

First Known Use

1619, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-esteem was in 1619

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Cite this Entry

“Self-esteem.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-esteem. Accessed 13 Jun. 2026.

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

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