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

Some brand representatives say the products can help kids use their imaginations, inspire creativity, and express individuality, offering them a safe option for mimicking parents and older siblings. —ABC News, 10 Mar. 2026

Walking down Castro Street today, Wiener says the neighborhood still represents something larger, a place where individuality is welcomed. —Lauren Toms, CBS News, 5 Mar. 2026

These artists seem irreplaceable, not just for their music, but also for their individuality and wisdom. —Bret Saunders, Denver Post, 1 Mar. 2026

Jackets—from trendy Hussar styles to a light wash chore jacket was accented with quilting fabrics—added to the individuality of looks. —Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 27 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1600, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Rhymes for individuality

• confidentiality
• constitutionality
• immateriality
• intellectuality
• intersectionality
• intertextuality
• referentiality
• superficiality
• territoriality
• abnormality
• cardinality
• commonality

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