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
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Wings suggest movement, resilience, and self-definition. Michelle F. Solomon, Miami Herald, 17 Feb. 2026 Suppose there were no niggers live or conveniently artificial for purposes of self-definition and self-approval if not self-love. Literary Hub, 3 Feb. 2026 This is about conscious self-definition. Dossé-Via Trenou, Refinery29, 30 Dec. 2025 These decisions offer a rare portrayal of Black male characters prioritizing ambition, self-definition, and emotional safety over respectability and predictability—an evolution often absent from mainstream depictions of Black masculinity. Richard Fowler, Forbes.com, 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 The biggest takeaway, though, is clear: beauty is revolution, carried forward through ritual, resilience, and self-definition. Larry Stansbury, Essence, 12 Sep. 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

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Cite this Entry

“Self-definition.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-definition. Accessed 22 Feb. 2026.

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