SELF-REALIZATION Synonyms: 32 Similar Words

self-realization

noun

Definition of self-realization

as in self-actualization

the act of achieving the full development of your abilities and talents Work is often a means of self-realization.

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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-realization While Regina charges for her services, many say the experience is worth it, offering not just a transformation but a sense of happiness and self-realization. — Ashley James, CBS News, 31 Mar. 2026 His experiment in self-realization put him in a long line of spiritual seekers, and like innumerable young persons in every generation, he was actively engaged in evolving a design for living, drawing from sources near to and farther from home. — Television Critic, Los Angeles Times, 30 Mar. 2026 His sociopathy is the logical extension of a homicidal ethos of self-actualization, self-realization, and self-care. — Tim Grierson, Vulture, 7 Mar. 2026 Sincerity is the path to self-realization in Rousseau’s political philosophy, according to political science professor Arthur Melzer. — Kenneth Andrew Andres Leonardo, The Conversation, 6 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for self-realization

Recent Examples of Synonyms for self-realization

Noun

That spirit was palpable in Demna’s debut show at Gucci, where self-concept and self-actualization seemed to come alive in a way that almost laughed at itself.

— Tiana Randall, Forbes.com, 22 May 2026
The adaptation stars Ella Bruccoleri as the eponymous Mary, who goes on a voyage of self-actualization in London.

— Emily Temple, Literary Hub, 30 Apr. 2026

Definition of self-actualization

Noun

In the midst of telling a story about self-discovery and new love, Los Javis transitioned from romantic and creative partners to solely creative partners.

— Daniel D'Addario, Variety, 14 Oct. 2026
Chappell Roan’s theatrical delivery rises alongside pounding drums and bright synths, transforming self-discovery into a full-room celebration.

— Brittney Williams, Billboard, 23 Sep. 2026

Definition of self-discovery

Noun

But this is a Norman Lear comedy after all (his last before passing in late 2023) — so by the end of the first episode, the hilarious sitcom has revealed its true interest in acceptance, forgiveness, and self-fulfillment.

— Michael Cuby, Them., 17 Nov. 2025
And increasingly, women are choosing solitude and self-fulfillment over unsatisfying relationships.

— Melissa Fleur Afshar, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 Oct. 2025

Definition of self-fulfillment

Noun

Perfect Road, a documentary from Danish directors and cousins Adam and Christian Bonke, follows him on an extreme journey through some of Europe’s highest mountain passes, while also providing a meditation on modern life and character study.

— Georg Szalai, HollywoodReporter, 17 Oct. 2026
While others find peace through meditation and community dinners, Gibbs finds it through the brigade.

— Noah Haggerty, Los Angeles Times, 17 Oct. 2026

Definition of meditation

Noun

Beyond Culture is also currently developing a namesake series — a reality-documentary hybrid that takes artists and cultural figures beyond persona and into radical self-exploration.

— Matt Grobar, Deadline, 19 Aug. 2026
In Linklater’s eyes, college symbolizes a fount of opportunity, a place where people can reinvent themselves, try on different identities, and embrace self-exploration.

— Vikram Murthi, IndieWire, 11 Aug. 2026

Definition of self-exploration

Noun

Born as the score to a surreal short film set on Manchester’s empty streets, the ambient duo’s latest album folds classical instrumentation and field recordings into a mood of deep introspection.

— Kiana Mickles, Pitchfork, 13 Oct. 2026
And the disturbing oscillations are a journey from uncertainty to insight, a train ride from introspection to moral resolution.

— Ben Corn, Christian Science Monitor, 19 Sep. 2026

Definition of introspection

Noun

Walking and talking with an AI fellow pilgrim Which brings me back to the Kumano Kodo in Japan, where contemplation is a key element of the traditional experience.

— Shay Rabineau, The Conversation, 8 Oct. 2026
She was accepted into the convent at the age of 36, and led a life of prayer and contemplation.

— Adam Harrington, CBS News, 6 Oct. 2026

Definition of contemplation

Noun

From there, Shaikh began to challenge Daniel on his Islamist views and to guide him toward self-reflection and accountability.

— Jeff Winter, CNN Money, 28 Sep. 2026
Yom Kippur, which is coming on Monday, is the most solemn time on the Jewish calendar, is a day of introspection, self-examination, self-evaluation, and self-reflection.

— Marc Schneier, New York Daily News, 18 Sep. 2026

Definition of self-reflection

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“Self-realization.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/self-realization. Accessed 19 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of self-realization

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