Definition of individualism
1a(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
2a
: individuality
b
: an individual peculiarity : idiosyncrasy
Keep scrolling for more
Keep scrolling for more
Keep scrolling for more
Keep scrolling for more
Test Your Vocabulary
Who Knew?
-
- What is a ruelle?

Test your knowledge - and maybe learn something along the way.
TAKE THE QUIZ
Spell words. Make bears.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Words at Play
Ask the Editors
Share individualism
Time Traveler for individualism
The first known use of individualism was in 1815
See more words from the same year