self-censorship

noun

self-cen·​sor·​ship ˌself-ˈsen(t)-sər-ˌship 

plural self-censorships

: the act or action of refraining from expressing something (such as a thought, point of view, or belief) that others could deem objectionable

What effects does self-censorship have on the accuracy and predictive validity of opinion polls?

—Samuel J. Best and Benjamin Radcliff

If self-censorship were ineffective, direct prohibition would be substituted.

—Raymond Hutchings

self-censor

ˌself-ˈsen(t)-sər 

verb, transitive + intransitive

self-censored; self-censoring; self-censors

She self-censors her language around the children.

I know our interrogators wouldn't want us to answer that question. I feel an overwhelming need to self-censor. "We can't really talk about that," I say.

—Shane Bauer et al.

Examples of self-censorship in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The administration’s approach to science policy has raised concerns about undermining scientific integrity, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, and about potential censorship and self-censorship among scientists. —A.j. Russo, Baltimore Sun, 17 Apr. 2025

But there is a fine line between discretion and self-censorship. —Julia Angwin, New Yorker, 12 Apr. 2025

This type of self-censorship is common on Indian streaming platforms who hope to preemptively avoid potential backlash or government scrutiny. —Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 3 Apr. 2025

But historically, self-censorship and science denial don’t lead to good places. —Sammy Roth, Los Angeles Times, 13 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1845, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for self-censorship

• apostleship
• apprenticeship
• assistantship
• championship
• chancellorship
• citizenship
• companionship
• copartnership
• dictatorship
• directorship
• discipleship
• editorship