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individualism

noun

ˌin-də-ˈvi-jə-wə-ˌli-zəm How to pronounce individualism (audio)
Definition of individualismnext
1
as in trick
an odd or peculiar habit the novelist gives each character an assortment of individualisms that sets them apart

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in identity
the set of qualities that make a person different from other people his individualism and epic vision set him well apart from other architects of his generation

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of individualism Naturally, this kind of rugged individualism poses risks to the broader labor market. — Noah Yosif, Fortune, 24 Aug. 2026 An act of controversy, a stunning goal or striking individualism. — Jacob Tanswell, New York Times, 13 Aug. 2026 That’s what the world needs more of—less individualism and more community action—and that’s what flowers have been doing all along. — Brianne Kane, Scientific American, 30 July 2026 Each of the five episodes focuses on a key precept of American culture, including individualism, free expression, and capitalism. — K. Thor Jensen, PC Magazine, 24 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for individualism
Recent Examples of Synonyms for individualism
  1. trick
  2. identity
  3. trait
  4. personality
  5. characteristic
  6. individuality
  7. mannerism
  8. eccentricity
Noun
  • Also, that Frodo Baggins camera trick makes Katie look even tinier in the turret.
    — Alice Burton, Vulture, 25 Sep. 2026
  • If the extent of your lawn care consists of blowing leaves off a patio every now and then, a DeWalt leaf blower (or even a simple broom) will do the trick.
    — BestReviews, Chicago Tribune, 24 Sep. 2026
Definition of trick
Noun
  • Tempel-Bornett said that despite the discovery of the tags, the identities of the two soldiers remain unknown.
    — Andrea Margolis, FOXNews.com, 23 Sep. 2026
  • The identity graph makes sure that signal is trustworthy, tying the usage drop to the right account and the right people.
    — Thomas Zawacki, Forbes.com, 23 Sep. 2026
Definition of identity
Noun
  • Willis already has demonstrated the necessary leadership traits to be a franchise quarterback, something that often requires one to consistently fall on the sword — even if the very failure did not remotely involve you.
    — Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 18 Sep. 2026
  • However, because individual plants may not display every characteristic, identify it by several features rather than height or any single trait.
    — SJ McShane, Martha Stewart, 18 Sep. 2026
Definition of trait
Noun
  • Predictable personalities are easier to follow and easier to share.
    — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 22 Sep. 2026
  • Yet each one of them has a personality different from every other baby ever born since there has been a world.
    — AJ Willingham, AJC.com, 22 Sep. 2026
Definition of personality
Noun
  • Also, its rolling olive oil cart, replete with its own menu describing the oils’ characteristics and origins, allows passengers to sample many.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Sep. 2026
  • The design is part of Kairos Power’s approach to developing advanced reactors with different safety characteristics from traditional nuclear plants.
    — Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 22 Sep. 2026
Definition of characteristic
Noun
  • Over time that label has grown into a kind of manifesto for diversity and inclusion and women’s empowerment, touting individuality.
    — Martino Carrera, Footwear News, 21 Sep. 2026
  • Carter’s says the symbol represents every child's individuality and potential.
    — Anthony Thompson, USA Today, 15 Sep. 2026
Definition of individuality
Noun
  • Others noticed how similar Ella’s voice and mannerisms are to Bening’s.
    — Victoria Edel, PEOPLE, 11 Sep. 2026
  • The whole cast commits to the bit, having undoubtedly shown up to play— still, there is something about Pine’s overdone mannerisms that land with the most uproarious laughter.
    — Tomris Laffly, Variety, 7 Sep. 2026
Definition of mannerism
Noun
  • This vast misshapen island was traditionally noted for ghosts, folktales, eccentricity, fish, and friendliness.
    — Paul Theroux, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Sep. 2026
  • Voorhees’ 19th century eccentricities stretched to the installation of beehives in the attic, but the space is now a cozy two-bedroom layout, with a living room and improved versions of the original porthole windows.
    — Richard Lane, Des Moines Register, 21 Sep. 2026
Definition of eccentricity

Browse Nearby Words

individual
individualism
individualisms
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Cite this Entry

“Individualism.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/individualism. Accessed 26 Sep. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on individualism

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about individualism

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