self 1 of 2

noun

ˈself How to pronounce self (audio)
Definition of selfnext
as in nature
the set of qualities that makes a person, a group of people, or a thing different from others some believe that it's only in times of great stress that a person's true self is revealed

Synonyms & Similar Words

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self

2 of 2

adjective

as in solid
having or consisting of a single color a self-red rose of a shade that hasn't been seen before

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 self
Noun
But without an ability to self-consciously reflect on the options and the likely outcomes of actions, does that rise to the level of true agency? — Quanta Magazine, 8 July 2026 Atlanta City Council approves a six-month moratorium on new self-storage facilities. — Adam Beam, AJC.com, 8 July 2026
Adjective
An inspector’s notes also stated there were cardboard containers on the floor, a non-self closing restroom door, no training documentation for the staff. — Pam McLoughlin, Hartford Courant, 28 Feb. 2023 The women's brains showed a clear divide between the areas of the brain activated by self and non-self MHCs. — Breanna Draxler, Discover Magazine, 24 Jan. 2013 See All Example Sentences for self
Recent Examples of Synonyms for self
  1. nature
  2. solid
  3. personality
  4. neutral
  5. tone
  6. monochrome
  7. colors
  8. character
Noun
  • That was one of the main goals when designing the app, since an internet connection isn't always guaranteed when exploring nature in Michigan.
    — Jack Springgate, CBS News, 13 July 2026
  • The limited nature of the aquariums’ beluga habitats affects the whales both physically and mentally, with one of the main problems being boredom, said Marino, who is also a neuroscientist.
    — Finnegan Belleau, Chicago Tribune, 13 July 2026
Definition of nature
Adjective
  • This upgrade package also includes the more powerful P160C solid-fuel boosters introduced in June and a lighter upper stage structure.
    — Eric Berger, ArsTechnica, 10 July 2026
  • As business brokers tell it, the type of companies that millennials are now eagerly snapping up are smaller firms with recurring revenue, a solid customer base, expertise in a niche market, and books that are in order.
    — Maggie McGrath, Forbes.com, 10 July 2026
Definition of solid
Noun
  • Fortunately, today's kitchen rugs are designed to handle real-life messes while bringing plenty of personality underfoot.
    — Vy Yang, Architectural Digest, 9 July 2026
  • Looks like the two very different personalities will have to share their grandfather’s cottage for the time being.
    — Dessi Gomez, Deadline, 9 July 2026
Definition of personality
Adjective
  • On the other side, the plumbing is being pushed toward neutral ground.
    — Janakiram MSV, Forbes.com, 6 July 2026
  • For a more understated look, classic French tips, neutral ombré, and sheer pink designs offer a polished finish without feeling too bold.
    — Rebecca Norris, InStyle, 5 July 2026
Definition of neutral
Noun
  • Destinations that combine crystal-clear seas, warm sand tones and unspoilt scenery consistently stand out as the places people most dream about visiting.
    — Michael Cappetta, Travel + Leisure, 5 July 2026
  • Navigation instructions are presented in plenty of time and with a confident tone.
    — James Raia, Mercury News, 5 July 2026
Definition of tone
Adjective
  • For decades, soccer cleats were almost exclusively monochrome white or black.
    — Mack DeGeurin, Popular Science, 2 July 2026
  • Those systems were monochrome, though, and focused solely on driving.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 15 May 2026
Definition of monochrome
Noun
  • Crow took the stage in a black vest and sparkly, navy blue pants that shimmered back the colors of the stage lights.
    — Sophie Lindberg, Kansas City Star, 12 July 2026
  • The smells are as intense as the colors of the tomatoes, strawberries, and lettuce from nearby farms.
    — Michael Goldstein, Forbes.com, 11 July 2026
Definition of colors
Noun
  • Each will showcase original works from more than 30 artists reimagining iconic moments, characters and worlds from Sonic’s history, alongside artwork from SEGA’s archives.
    — Matt Minton, Variety, 8 July 2026
  • Thorpe’s characters are so specific, their balance of prickliness and kindness and quirk so delicate, that one wrong casting choice could ruin the whole viewing experience.
    — Judy Berman, Time, 8 July 2026
Definition of character

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selects
self
self-abandoned
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Cite this Entry

“Self.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/self. Accessed 16 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on self

Nglish: Translation of self for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about self

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