self-examination

noun

self-ex·​am·​i·​na·​tion ˌself-ig-ˌza-mə-ˈnā-shən How to pronounce self-examination (audio)
1
: a reflective examination (as of one's beliefs or motives) : introspection
2
: examination of one's body especially for evidence of disease

Examples of self-examination in a Sentence

many people use the dawning of a new year as an occasion for some quiet self-examination
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.
Mother’s turbulent self-examination is incited by the revelation of Sister Agnieszka’s pregnancy in the film’s first Act. Ritesh Mehta, IndieWire, 27 Aug. 2025 This disciplined self-examination is the foundation for refining skills and advancing toward mastery. Richard Menger Md Mpa, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2025 Yet the current administration has chosen to hack away at budgets rather than do the hard work of self-examination and improvement. Steven R. Furlanetto, Twin Cities, 17 Aug. 2025 Throughout her journey after her cancer diagnosis, Bahl has become a fierce advocate for the importance of self-examinations. Luke Chinman, People.com, 15 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for self-examination

Word History

First Known Use

1625, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-examination was in 1625

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Cite this Entry

“Self-examination.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-examination. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

Medical Definition

self-examination

noun
self-ex·​am·​i·​na·​tion -ig-ˌzam-ə-ˈnā-shən How to pronounce self-examination (audio)
variants or self-exam
: examination of one's body especially for evidence of disease
regular self-examination for early detection of breast cancer
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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