self-confidence

noun

self-con·​fi·​dence ˌself-ˈkän-fə-dən(t)s 

-ˌden(t)s

: confidence in oneself and in one's powers and abilities

self-confident

ˌself-ˈkän-fə-dənt 

-ˌdent

adjective

self-confidently adverb

Synonyms

• confidence
• assurance
• self-assurance
• composure

Examples of self-confidence in a Sentence

for so young a pianist, he has remarkable composure and self-confidence on stage

Recent Examples on the Web

Research indicates, for instance, that nostalgia provides a bevy of psychological benefits, increasing an individual’s sense of satisfaction, self-confidence, and social connection, all while staving off their feelings of isolation and loneliness. —Sam Walters, Discover Magazine, 11 July 2025

Enduring the heat in New Orleans calls for layers, patterns, and prints that evoke self-confidence. —Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 7 July 2025

Arab leaders have demonstrated this new self-confidence by largely embracing the new Syrian government, choosing to look past President Ahmed al-Shara’s terrorist history and coordinating with Erdogan to push an initially reticent Trump administration to embrace Damascus’s leader. —James Jeffrey, Foreign Affairs, 4 July 2025

Foster self-confidence and independence in your child. —Melissa Willets, Parents, 4 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1604, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for self-confidence

• confidence
• overconfidence

Kids Definition

self-confidence

noun

self-con·​fi·​dence

ˈself-ˈkän-fəd-ən(t)s,

-fə-ˌden(t)s

: confidence in oneself and in one's powers and abilities

self-confident

-fəd-ənt

-fə-ˌdent

adjective

self-confidently adverb