self-confidence

noun

self-con·​fi·​dence ˌself-ˈkän-fə-dən(t)s 

-ˌden(t)s

: confidence in oneself and in one's powers and abilities

self-confident

ˌself-ˈkän-fə-dənt 

-ˌdent

adjective

self-confidently adverb

Synonyms of self-confidence

• confidence
• assurance
• self-assurance
• composure

Examples of self-confidence in a Sentence

for so young a pianist, he has remarkable composure and self-confidence on stage

Recent Examples on the Web

Extracurricular activities help kids build important life skills, including teamwork, persistence, and self-confidence. — Kara Nesvig, Parents, 10 Aug. 2026

But he has been accused of inflating his role in some projects and demonstrating a self-confidence that borders on cockiness. — Tracy Grant, Encyclopedia Britannica, 7 Aug. 2026

Before Ted arrives in England, the ladies will have been trained by Assistant Coach Alice Chilton (Tanya Reynolds), a lovely and devoted leader who lacks self-confidence. — Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 5 Aug. 2026

On July 27, as the sun in Leo makes an opposition to Pluto retrograde in Aquarius, your self-confidence could be met with resistance, or maybe a personal desire clashes with social expectations. — Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 27 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1604, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for self-confidence

• confidence
• overconfidence

Kids Definition

self-confidence

noun

self-con·​fi·​dence

ˈself-ˈkän-fəd-ən(t)s, 

-fə-ˌden(t)s

: confidence in oneself and in one's powers and abilities

self-confident

-fəd-ənt, 

-fə-ˌdent

adjective

self-confidently adverb