self-esteem
noun
self-es·teem
ˌself-ə-ˈstēm 
1
: a confidence and satisfaction in oneself : self-respect
2
Examples of self-esteem in a Sentence
friends and family have tried to help the shy child develop some self-esteem
his towering self-esteem made praise from other people entirely unnecessary
the kind of self-esteem that a struggling actor needs to keep going in the face of constant discouragement and rejection
Recent Examples on the Web
And then there are grandiose narcissists, who exhibit social boldness, high self-esteem, and are more likely to overestimate their own intelligence.
—
ArsTechnica, 18 Sep. 2025
The nonprofit aims to boost the self-esteem of children who may have never received a birthday cake.
—Krista Johnson, Louisville Courier Journal, 18 Sep. 2025
Think self-care to self-help to self-esteem to self-worth.
—Colin Bedell, Them., 17 Sep. 2025
This condition can directly affect not only a person’s physical appearance but also their self-esteem and social life.
—Daniel Fusch, USA Today, 17 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for self-esteem
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.
ArsTechnica, 18 Sep. 2025
The nonprofit aims to boost the self-esteem of children who may have never received a birthday cake.
—Krista Johnson, Louisville Courier Journal, 18 Sep. 2025
Think self-care to self-help to self-esteem to self-worth.
—Colin Bedell, Them., 17 Sep. 2025
This condition can directly affect not only a person’s physical appearance but also their self-esteem and social life.
—Daniel Fusch, USA Today, 17 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for self-esteem
Cite this Entry
“Self-esteem.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-esteem. Accessed 29 Sep. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share