self-identity

noun

self-iden·​ti·​ty ˌself-ī-ˈden-tə-tē How to pronounce self-identity (audio)
-ˈde-nə-tē
1
: sameness of a thing with itself
2
: individuality
self-understanding is the necessary condition of a sense of self-identityJ. C. Murray

Examples of self-identity in a Sentence

twins making an effort to establish their separate self-identities
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Danica McKellar is getting real about her previous struggles with self-identity. Gabrielle Rockson, People.com, 19 Nov. 2024 Dissecting with near-clinical precision the pressure of new maternity and the possible loss of self-identity that accompanies it, Montages of a Modern Motherhood handles its universal-feeling subject matter with depth and sensitivity. Frank Scheck, The Hollywood Reporter, 31 Oct. 2024 Opposition ‘lost its self-identity’ Polling suggests that many in Moldova have been impressed by Sandu’s first term. Christian Edwards, CNN, 18 Oct. 2024 Adolescent girls may rely on personal relationships for emotional support and self-identity. Patrick Martin, NBC News, 9 Sep. 2024 Coaches are committed to Building Game Changers, work hard to embody the Key Commitments, set a positive example of pursuing goals, grow through challenge, collaborate with others, build positive self-identity and use good judgment. First Tee, Forbes, 5 Sep. 2024 In Gifted Lives, Freeman profiles multiple gifted students who find their self-identity so tied up in the idea of their giftedness that the thought of failure becomes unbearable to them, ultimately hampering them throughout their lives. Constance Grady, Vox, 14 Aug. 2024 The loss of a professional self-identity is particularly acute for men, who often have weaker ties and self-definition outside of the workplace. Charley Locke, The Atlantic, 23 July 2024 Mothers who pour themselves so fully into building their children’s dreams often struggle to find their self-identity when their children grow up. Ebony Flake, Essence, 28 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1794, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-identity was in 1794

Dictionary Entries Near self-identity

Cite this Entry

“Self-identity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-identity. Accessed 26 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

self-identity

noun
self-iden·​ti·​ty
ˌsel-ˌfī-ˈden(t)-ət-ē
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!