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 individualsb : 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 : individualityb : an individual peculiarity : idiosyncrasy
Read the Latest from M-W
Examples of individualism in a Sentence
a society that believes strongly in individualism
He was respected for his self-reliance and individualism.
Recent Examples of individualism from the Web
-
After a global atomic war, an omnipresent government, headed by the party leader Big Brother, persecutes individualism and uses public mind control to sustain their totalitarian rule.
-
They were pushed there by a culture that crushes individualism.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'individualism'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
First Known Use of individualism
1815
Other Philosophy Terms
INDIVIDUALISM Defined for English Language Learners
individualism
playDefinition of individualism for English Language Learners
-
: the belief that the needs of each person are more important than the needs of the whole society or group
-
: the actions or attitudes of a person who does things without being concerned about what other people will think
Learn More about individualism
-
Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for individualism Spanish Central: Translation of individualism Nglish: Translation of individualism for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of individualism for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about individualism
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up individualism? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!