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self-identity

noun

self-iden·​ti·​ty ˌself-ī-ˈden-tə-tē How to pronounce self-identity (audio)
-ˈde-nə-tē
Synonyms of self-identitynext
1
: sameness of a thing with itself
2
: individuality
Self-understanding is the necessary condition of a sense of self-identityJ. C. Murray

Examples of self-identity in a Sentence

twins making an effort to establish their separate self-identities
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.
That is so traumatizing in itself, and then it’s compiled with his abusive father and being bullied at school and being excluded from his friends and struggling with his self-identity. Adam B. Vary, Variety, 27 Nov. 2025 This universality of human non-identity—which is based on the self-identity of nothingness—is the source of Kojève’s conviction that human history will end with the establishment of a universal and homogeneous state in which everyone’s non-identity is recognized. Literary Hub, 11 Nov. 2025 Over time, going along with what others tell you to do can lead to unhappiness and lack of self-identity. Angela Haupt, Time, 7 Nov. 2025 Transgender students pick which bathroom to use based on their self-identity when middle school students change their clothes for physical education class, Bourne said. Ishani Desai, Sacbee.com, 19 Sep. 2025 Seeking punishment for a pre-existing (probably Oedipal) feeling of shame and inadequacy, some of the incarcerated seek a reality that fits their self-identity. Adam Solomons, IndieWire, 5 Sep. 2025 However, these actions often lead to regret, resentment and a loss of self-identity. Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 2 Sep. 2025 There are hundreds of BLS employees for whom the integrity of the system is part of their self-identity. Edward Lotterman, Twin Cities, 10 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1794, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-identity was in 1794

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Cite this Entry

“Self-identity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-identity. Accessed 5 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

self-identity

noun
self-iden·​ti·​ty
ˌsel-ˌfī-ˈden(t)-ət-ē
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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