self-loathing

noun

self-loath·​ing ˌself-ˈlō-ṯẖiŋ 

: loathing of oneself : self-hatred

acting out of fear and self-loathing

… the idea that the self-absorption and egotism of the narcissist are a pose to mask their opposite: a deep well of self-loathing and low self-esteem.

—Jeffrey Kluger

self-loathing adjective

… his life as a self-loathing sensualist, an incautious but easily damaged artist …

—A. L. Kennedy

… stars as a self-loathing English writer who writes Hollywood sitcoms for his actress wife …

—Giselle Benatar

Examples of self-loathing in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Finding the hard evidence first before jumping to conclusions saves you a lot of self-loathing, unnecessary worry, relationship problems and productive time. —Bryan Robinson, Forbes.com, 16 Apr. 2025

The concluding note of simplifying, uplifting coincidence does a disservice to Giamatti’s degree of commitment, with far more conviction in his turns from anger to self-loathing to remorse than the episode exercises in its own plotting. 11. —Charles Bramesco, Vulture, 10 Apr. 2025

And while Jaclyn views her single status in Thailand as a way for Laurie to get her groove back, her attempts only lead to further humiliation and self-loathing. —Stephanie McNeal, Glamour, 7 Apr. 2025

Beset by coughing fits, alcoholism, and a healthy dose of self-loathing, Kilmer’s portrayal emphasized the human frailty of an Old West legend over masculine bravado. —Joseph Hudak, Rolling Stone, 2 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1635, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for self-loathing

• loathing