individualism
noun
in·di·vid·u·al·ism
ˌin-də-ˈvi-jə-wə-ˌli-zəm 
-ˈvij-wə-,
-ˈvi-jə-ˌli-
1
a(1)
: a doctrine that the interests of the individual are or ought to be ethically paramount
also
: conduct guided by such a doctrine
(2)
: the conception that all values, rights, and duties originate in individuals
b
: a theory maintaining the political and economic independence of the individual and stressing individual initiative, action, and interests
also
: conduct or practice guided by such a theory
2
a
b
: an individual peculiarity : idiosyncrasy
Examples of individualism in a Sentence
a society that believes strongly in individualism
He was respected for his self-reliance and individualism.
Recent Examples on the Web
Its rise reflects American values of individualism and efficiency but also a deeper yearning for identity through food.
—
Stephanie Gravalese, Forbes.com, 16 Apr. 2025
In China, too, rapid economic growth and upward mobility have meant people today value individualism and autonomy more than previous generations, according to a 2018 study – reflected in the steady rise of parents choosing unique characters in their babies’ names.
—Jessie Yeung, CNN Money, 28 May 2025
Indian spirituality, with its emphasis on the interconnectedness of life, was an important check on the hubris of American individualism and biblical notions of how the world had been given by God to man to have dominion over.
—Andrew Moore, New York Times, 15 May 2025
In a world increasingly defined by individualism and speed, sport remains one of the rare forces that compels people to pause, gather, and share in moments that transcend borders and generations.
—Sindiswa Mabunda, Forbes.com, 8 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for individualism
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Stephanie Gravalese, Forbes.com, 16 Apr. 2025
In China, too, rapid economic growth and upward mobility have meant people today value individualism and autonomy more than previous generations, according to a 2018 study – reflected in the steady rise of parents choosing unique characters in their babies’ names.
—Jessie Yeung, CNN Money, 28 May 2025
Indian spirituality, with its emphasis on the interconnectedness of life, was an important check on the hubris of American individualism and biblical notions of how the world had been given by God to man to have dominion over.
—Andrew Moore, New York Times, 15 May 2025
In a world increasingly defined by individualism and speed, sport remains one of the rare forces that compels people to pause, gather, and share in moments that transcend borders and generations.
—Sindiswa Mabunda, Forbes.com, 8 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for individualism
Cite this Entry
“Individualism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/individualism. Accessed 4 Jul. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
individualism
noun
in·di·vid·u·al·ism
ˌin-də-ˈvij(ə-)wə-ˌliz-əm
-ˈvij-ə-ˌliz-
1
: a belief that the interests of the individual are of the greatest importance
2
: a belief that the individual has political or economic rights with which the state must not interfere
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