self-definition

noun

self-def·​i·​ni·​tion ˌself-ˌde-fə-ˈni-shən How to pronounce self-definition (audio)
: the evaluation by oneself of one's worth as an individual in distinction from one's interpersonal or social roles

Examples of self-definition 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.
The United States, searching for self-definition but loath to lose its illusions—its innocence—needed all of this as a counterpoint. Sebastian Smee, New Yorker, 4 May 2026 The capsule is expressed through Fear of God’s signature silhouettes, featuring Don’t Stop Your Future script and a profile symbolizing identity and self-definition. Lisa Lockwood, Footwear News, 1 May 2026 Taken together, the SVB and McKinsey data suggest that the sector’s self-definition remains too narrow, even after years of expansion. Geri Stengel, Forbes.com, 3 Apr. 2026 Wings suggest movement, resilience, and self-definition. Michelle F. Solomon, Miami Herald, 17 Feb. 2026 This is about conscious self-definition. Dossé-Via Trenou, Refinery29, 30 Dec. 2025 In a moment when the fashion system runs at an extremely fast pace, Jingru Wang and Sadamatsu created a space of interconnection and care, reciprocity and self-definition. Caterina De Biasio, Vogue, 22 Nov. 2025 The full moon in Aries blazes with bold, assertive energy, marking a climactic moment for action, courage, and self-definition. Alexis Simmerman, Austin American Statesman, 6 Oct. 2025 Mercury in Leo motivates courageous self-definition. Colin Bedell, Them., 13 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1957, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-definition was in 1957

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Self-definition.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-definition. Accessed 9 May. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster