self-expression

noun

self-ex·​pres·​sion ˌself-ik-ˈspre-shən How to pronounce self-expression (audio)
: the expression of one's own personality : assertion of one's individual traits
self-expressive adjective

Examples of self-expression in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web This forward-looking perspective reaffirmed Nike’s commitment to empowering athletes in their sport as well as their individuality and self-expression. Devine Blacksher, Essence, 18 Apr. 2024 With women now turning to TikTok for information and as a vehicle for self-expression, the app has also become a forum for discussion. Emily Schmall, New York Times, 17 Apr. 2024 Even if the joy and self-expression and community and so many other parts of queerness and sexuality will always be more than statistics can explain. Selena Simmons-Duffin, NPR, 15 Apr. 2024 Taking that East Coast prep heritage [and] streetwear into my love for science fiction films created a new entry point for me and my self-expression. Julissa James, Los Angeles Times, 10 Apr. 2024 Sagittarius Creativity, romance, and self-expression are in focus for Sagittarius. Glamour, 8 Apr. 2024 His self-expression hasn’t changed drastically over the years. Kerane Marcellus, Essence, 5 Apr. 2024 Find an outlet for self-expression under the Sagittarius moon. USA TODAY, 30 Mar. 2024 Selecting the right frame for your eyeglasses requires careful consideration and a deeper understanding of your self-expression. William Mullane, Detroit Free Press, 23 Mar. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'self-expression.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1892, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-expression was in 1892

Dictionary Entries Near self-expression

Cite this Entry

“Self-expression.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-expression. Accessed 24 Apr. 2024.

Kids Definition

self-expression

noun
self-ex·​pres·​sion
ˌsel-fik-ˈspresh-ən
: the expression of one's own personality

More from Merriam-Webster on self-expression

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