self-esteem

noun

self-es·​teem ˌself-ə-ˈstēm 

1

: a confidence and satisfaction in oneself : self-respect

2

: self-conceit

Synonyms of self-esteem

• pride
• pridefulness
• confidence
• ego
• self-respect

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

If your teenager—especially your teen boy—is using mogging to compare themselves to their peers or influencers, and changes their appearance or personality to imitate those people, the pressure to 'mog' might be harming their self-esteem. —Sherri Gordon, Parents, 22 Nov. 2025

Beauty plays a vital role in fostering well-being, self-esteem and social connection, contributing to a fulfilling life regardless of age. —Jenny B. Fine, Footwear News, 18 Nov. 2025

Meanwhile, the Scorpio New Moon on November 20 invites you to reset your relationship with wealth and self-esteem alike. —Dossé-Via Trenou, Refinery29, 16 Nov. 2025

Her Camp Katina empowers young girls in South Florida through gymnastics, confidence-building workshops and mentorship focused on self-esteem and healthy living. —Nasha Smith, PEOPLE, 14 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1619, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for self-esteem

• academe
• cherubim
• elohim
• episteme
• seraphim
• abeam
• airstream
• bloodstream
• daydream
• downstream
• esteem
• extreme

Kids Definition

self-esteem

noun

self-es·​teem

ˌsel-fə-ˈstēm

1

: a confidence and satisfaction in oneself : self-respect

2

: an exaggerated opinion of one's own abilities : self-conceit