self-awareness

noun

self-aware·​ness ˌself-ə-ˈwer-nəs 

: an awareness of one's own personality or individuality

Examples of self-awareness in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Intellectual curiosity, empathy, and self-awareness are among them. —Preston Fore, Fortune, 4 Jan. 2026

Hey, what’s the rehab line that all awareness starts with self-awareness? —Dave Hyde, Sun Sentinel, 3 Jan. 2026

This requires significant expertise, intelligence, and self-awareness, not to mention the right combination of personality traits. —Ron Carucci, Harvard Business Review, 2 Jan. 2026

Because of our natural negativity bias, in which the brain tends to notice threats or problems more quickly than positive events, parents benefit from cultivating self-awareness and engaging in deliberate practice to ensure positive interactions are not overshadowed by moments of correction. —Sherri Gordon, Parents, 1 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1876, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for self-awareness

• awareness
• unfairness
• bareness
• fairness
• squareness
• unawareness

Kids Definition

self-awareness

noun

self-aware·​ness

ˌsel-fə-ˈwa(ə)r-nəs, 

-ˈwe(ə)r-

: an awareness of one's own personality or individuality

Medical Definition

self-awareness

noun

self-aware·​ness

: an awareness of one's own personality or individuality