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

: individuality

b

: an individual peculiarity : idiosyncrasy

Synonyms of individualism

• trick
• trait
• characteristic
• mannerism
• eccentricity
• singularity
• idiosyncrasy
• habit
• peculiarity
• quirk
• curiosity
• twist

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

Even her clothing is a reflection of her individualism. —Dave Skretta, Chicago Tribune, 19 Feb. 2026

But by participating in the past half century’s slide into hyper-individualism, libertarian paternalists are contributing to a collective ungluing. —Rob Wolfe, The Atlantic, 19 Feb. 2026

Even her clothing is a reflection of her individualism. —Dallas Morning News, 18 Feb. 2026

These Iranians embrace individualism and global culture through the internet, and simply want to exist and act as citizens within their society. —Ramin Jahanbegloo, Time, 3 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1815, in the meaning defined at sense 1a(1)

Rhymes for individualism

• abolitionism
• aldosteronism
• americanism
• anticommunism
• antisemitism
• antiterrorism
• bioterrorism
• colloquialism
• colonialism
• consequentialism
• contextualism
• conventionalism

Kids 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