individuality

noun

in·​di·​vid·​u·​al·​i·​ty ˌin-də-ˌvi-jə-ˈwa-lə-tē How to pronounce individuality (audio)
plural individualities
1
a
: total character peculiar to and distinguishing an individual from others
2
: separate or distinct existence
3
4
archaic : the quality or state of being indivisible

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 Presenting him with an honorary doctorate, Kratz praised Jenney’s independence, individuality, steadfast commitment to his vision, and ability to create his own luck and success. Freya Drohan, Vogue, 2 Apr. 2024 Additionally, the six-piece capsule was inspired by the power and individuality of the brand’s signature pieces, hence the go-to lace and neutral colors. Essence, 1 Apr. 2024 Birkin herself confessed her melting pot of bag charms were part of an expression of individuality. Leah Dolan, CNN, 29 Mar. 2024 That utopian ideal was carried forward by the Paris Commune and, eventually, the Soviets, who sought to erase from the human experience concepts such as property, enterprise, and individuality. Noah Rothman, National Review, 28 Mar. 2024 Representative of universality and individuality, of uniformity and idiosyncrasy, black acts physically like no other color, absorbing light. Pino Gagliardi, The Hollywood Reporter, 5 Mar. 2024 In memes and short videos, codependency remains a shorthand for women’s fears of being too emotionally dependent on others, and of losing their independence and individuality as a result. Elissa Strauss, The Atlantic, 25 Feb. 2024 However, while the paths might vary, the foundation of all strategies will be the same: the recognition that all roads to bringing purpose to work will inevitably include treating workers with dignity and valuing their uniqueness and individuality. Daniel Chang Contreras, Forbes, 21 Feb. 2024 Particularly as Gen Z puts more emphasis on individuality and sustainability, thrifting presents itself as an identity and value driven activity, and an alternative to fast-fashion consumption. Kayleigh Ruller, Charlotte Observer, 2 Apr. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'individuality.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1600, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Time Traveler
The first known use of individuality was in 1600

Dictionary Entries Near individuality

Cite this Entry

“Individuality.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/individuality. Accessed 19 Apr. 2024.

Kids Definition

individuality

noun
in·​di·​vid·​u·​al·​i·​ty ˌin-də-ˌvij-ə-ˈwal-ət-ē How to pronounce individuality (audio)
plural individualities
1
: the qualities that make one person or thing different from all others
2
: the quality or state of being an individual

More from Merriam-Webster on individuality

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