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

Siddhartha At the heart of this novel, which is told in simple, sincere prose, is the spiritual journey of a man named Siddhartha who searches for self-discovery throughout the years of his life.

— Caroline Rogers, Southern Living, 22 Aug. 2026
University leaders described freshmen as being on a journey of self-discovery.

— Jaweed Kaleem, Los Angeles Times, 20 Aug. 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

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

However, his introspection is cut short by Zoe’s arrival at his motel room.

— Siddhant Adlakha, Vulture, 7 Sep. 2026
Ahead of the sound bath, Oso Sound Healing Studio founder Avery Whitmore said the unconventional space would invite a childlike energy, a deeper connection to animals and introspection.

— Emily Tarinelli, Los Angeles Times, 28 Aug. 2026

Definition of introspection

Noun

As the moon harmonizes with Chiron, self-mastery lies in self-reflection.

— USA TODAY, USA Today, 9 Sep. 2026
Whether the loss of Jason Arday has prompted any self-reflection for a notoriously ruthless industry remains to be seen, but the headlines about the Sussexes’ move back to Britain have been — so far — surprisingly lukewarm.

— Lily Ford, HollywoodReporter, 1 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 14 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of self-realization

noun

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