self-absorption

noun

self-ab·​sorp·​tion ˌself-əb-ˈsȯrp-shən How to pronounce self-absorption (audio)
-ˈzȯrp-
Synonyms of self-absorptionnext
: preoccupation with oneself

Examples of self-absorption in a Sentence

the novel's major characters all suffer from self-absorption, and they are every bit as insufferable as such people are in real life
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Beware the tendency to slip into self-absorption as a Dragon, however. Kyle Lucia Wu, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 Feb. 2026 The tensions among Robyn, Dara and Saoirse are especially well-drawn; the women call each other out for Robyn’s self-absorption, Dara’s cowardice and Saoirse’s unseemly appetite for excitement as only old friends can. Alison Herman, Variety, 12 Feb. 2026 President Trump’s diatribes and self-absorption are impediments to good governance, prompting critics to engage in a war of words and physical demonstrations. William J. Boudreau, Washington Post, 27 Jan. 2026 For centuries, the story functioned as a moral warning against vanity and self-absorption. Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic, Forbes.com, 25 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for self-absorption

Word History

First Known Use

1803, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-absorption was in 1803

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Cite this Entry

“Self-absorption.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-absorption. Accessed 5 Mar. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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