self-interest

noun

self-in·​ter·​est ˌself-ˈin-t(ə-)rəst 

-ˈin-tə-ˌrest,

-ˌtrest;

-ˈin-tərst

1

: a concern for one's own advantage and well-being

acted out of self-interest and fear

2

: one's own interest or advantage

self-interest requires that we be generous in foreign aid

self-interested

ˌself-ˈin-t(ə-)rə-stəd 

-ˈin-tə-ˌre-

-ˈin-ˌtre-;

-ˈin-tər-

adjective

self-interestedly adverb

self-interestedness noun

Synonyms

• egocentricity
• egocentrism
• egoism
• egomania
• egotism
• narcissism
• navel-gazing
• self-absorption
• self-centeredness
• self-concern
• self-involvement
• self-preoccupation
• self-regard
• selfishness
• selfness

Examples of self-interest in a Sentence

her degree of self-interest is perhaps best reflected in her favorite topic of conversation—herself

Recent Examples on the Web

Once President Joe Biden announced his withdrawal as a candidate last month, Democrats predictably gushed over his public-spirited decision to put country before self-interest. —Philip A. Wallach, National Review, 8 Aug. 2024

An ethical government free from corruption and self-interest is essential to our democracy. —Jennifer Rubin, Washington Post, 28 July 2024

Donald Trump has shown disdain for the vision of American leadership – rooted not just in power and self-interest but also in values – put in place after the world war, and for the overseas alliances forged along the way. —Ned Temko, The Christian Science Monitor, 25 July 2024

His decision seemed calculated to prioritize the health of the nation over his own self-interest—and, perhaps, above his own mental and physical well-being. —Charley Locke, The Atlantic, 23 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1595, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Kids Definition

self-interest

noun

self-in·​ter·​est

ˈsel-ˈfin-trəst,

-ˈfint-ə-rəst

1

: a concern for one's own advantage

acted out of self-interest and fear

2

: one's own interest or advantage