self-abuse

noun

ˌself-ə-ˈbyüs How to pronounce self-abuse (audio)
1
: reproach of oneself
2
old-fashioned : masturbation
3
: abuse of one's body or health

Examples of self-abuse in a Sentence

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.
Her performance balances restraint with sudden flashes of overwhelming emotion and even fury, effectively embodying a woman whose subtle self-abuse has calcified into habit. — Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 25 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1653, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-abuse was in 1653

Rhymes for self-abuse

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Browse Nearby Words

self-absorption
self-abuse
self-accelerating
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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

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