individualism
noun
in·di·vid·u·al·ism
ˌin-də-ˈvi-jə-wə-ˌli-zəm 
-ˈvij-wə-,
-ˈvi-jə-ˌli-
1
a(1)
: a doctrine that the interests of the individual are or ought to be ethically paramount
also
: conduct guided by such a doctrine
(2)
: the conception that all values, rights, and duties originate in individuals
b
: a theory maintaining the political and economic independence of the individual and stressing individual initiative, action, and interests
also
: conduct or practice guided by such a theory
2
a
b
: an individual peculiarity : idiosyncrasy
Synonyms
Examples of individualism in a Sentence
a society that believes strongly in individualism
He was respected for his self-reliance and individualism.
Recent Examples on the Web
This strain of individualism has remained strong in U.S. politics: Individual liberty, personal responsibility and economic opportunity are the foundations of American life, individualists say, so each person should win or lose on their own.
—
Jay Feinman, The Conversation, 15 Jan. 2025
Kim added that the pursuit of individualism in Korea coexists with a sense of community, rooted in Confucian values, and a collective yearning for freedom stemming from Japanese occupation and dictatorial regimes.
—Hanna Park, CNN, 13 Jan. 2025
While individualism is still celebrated, Pinterest users are warming up to the idea of coordinating outfits with friends and partners to make a statement.
—Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 5 Dec. 2024
Even among those with the means, health individualism is burdensome and does not guarantee better health.
—Yaakov Katz, Newsweek, 27 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for individualism 
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Jay Feinman, The Conversation, 15 Jan. 2025
Kim added that the pursuit of individualism in Korea coexists with a sense of community, rooted in Confucian values, and a collective yearning for freedom stemming from Japanese occupation and dictatorial regimes.
—Hanna Park, CNN, 13 Jan. 2025
While individualism is still celebrated, Pinterest users are warming up to the idea of coordinating outfits with friends and partners to make a statement.
—Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 5 Dec. 2024
Even among those with the means, health individualism is burdensome and does not guarantee better health.
—Yaakov Katz, Newsweek, 27 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for individualism
Dictionary Entries Near individualism
Cite this Entry
“Individualism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/individualism. Accessed 29 Jan. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
individualism
noun
in·di·vid·u·al·ism
ˌin-də-ˈvij(ə-)wə-ˌliz-əm
-ˈvij-ə-ˌliz-
1
: a belief that the interests of the individual are of the greatest importance
2
: a belief that the individual has political or economic rights with which the state must not interfere
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