self-esteem

noun

self-es·​teem ˌself-ə-ˈstēm 

1

: a confidence and satisfaction in oneself : self-respect

2

: self-conceit

Synonyms of self-esteem

• pride
• pridefulness
• confidence
• ego
• self-respect

Examples of self-esteem in a Sentence

friends and family have tried to help the shy child develop some self-esteem

his towering self-esteem made praise from other people entirely unnecessary

the kind of self-esteem that a struggling actor needs to keep going in the face of constant discouragement and rejection

Recent Examples on the Web

These can all hurt a woman’s self-concept, which shapes identity, self-image and self-esteem. —Helen Carefoot, Flow Space, 4 June 2026

Walking is exercise proven to help ward off anxiety, depression, dementia and Alzheimer’s, while improving self-esteem and raising dopamine levels. —Hanna Wickes, Kansas City Star, 4 June 2026

Walking is exercise proven to help ward off anxiety, depression, dementia and Alzheimer’s, while boosting self-esteem and dopamine levels. —Hanna Wickes, Charlotte Observer, 4 June 2026

Mercury in Cancer shines a spotlight on money, resources and self-esteem, and conversations about raises, budgets, pricing or financial goals may take center stage. —Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 1 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1619, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for self-esteem

• academe
• cherubim
• elohim
• episteme
• seraphim
• abeam
• airstream
• bloodstream
• daydream
• downstream
• esteem
• extreme

Kids Definition

self-esteem

noun

self-es·​teem

ˌsel-fə-ˈstēm

1

: a confidence and satisfaction in oneself : self-respect

2

: an exaggerated opinion of one's own abilities : self-conceit