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
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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Time Traveler for individualism
The first known use of individualism was in 1815
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