individuality

noun

in·​di·​vid·​u·​al·​i·​ty ˌin-də-ˌvi-jə-ˈwa-lə-tē 

plural individualities

1

a

: total character peculiar to and distinguishing an individual from others

Their modernism has a … determined individuality of style, so that no mature artist can be confused with another …

—John Updike

b

: personality

a child asserting her individuality

2

: separate or distinct existence

… ants … turn out to have no individuality but are only cells of a colony.

—Alison Lurie

3

: individual, person

4

archaic : the quality or state of being indivisible

Synonyms of individuality

• identity
• personality

Examples of individuality in a Sentence

She uses her clothing to express her individuality.

materials that highlight the individuality of each piece in the collection

Recent Examples on the Web

While his photographs capture moments of power, individuality, and almost mythological heroism, the documentary will offer an opportunity to explore the complicated realities behind those images. — Robert Lang, Deadline, 19 Oct. 2026

Photographed and directed by Gabriel Moses, the campaign brings each icon into sharp focus, placing them at the center of a crowd as a powerful expression of individuality. — Luisa Zargani, Footwear News, 15 Oct. 2026

There’s a hint of eccentricity and individuality to it that feels particularly exciting for SS27. — Madeleine Schulz, Vogue, 14 Oct. 2026

In polyphonic music such as Bach, Van Bloss offers a superhuman degree of precision and individuality. — Mike Hamersly, Miami Herald, 12 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1600, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Rhymes for individuality

• bisexuality
• collegiality
• conditionality
• congeniality
• conventionality
• conviviality
• dimensionality
• directionality
• emotionality
• essentiality
• eventuality
• grammaticality

Kids Definition

individuality

noun

in·​di·​vid·​u·​al·​i·​ty ˌin-də-ˌvij-ə-ˈwal-ət-ē 

plural individualities

1

: the qualities that make one person or thing different from all others

2

: the quality or state of being an individual