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

At a time when many luxury groups are working to standardize experiences across global portfolios, Maybourne continues to fiercely protect the individuality of each property. — Jeetendr Sehdev, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026

For many people, body art is a meaningful way to commemorate a milestone, honor a loved one of simply express their individuality. — Rachel Brown Kirkland, AJC.com, 30 July 2026

Conceived as a symbol of light, optimism and individuality, the emblem has become a recurring signature across the house’s accessories. — Thomas Waller, Footwear News, 27 July 2026

Richardson has frequently spoken about inclusion, respect, and individuality, but there is no known statement specifically addressing male athletes competing in women’s events. — Jon Root Outkick, FOXNews.com, 25 July 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