self-representation

noun

plural self-representations
: the act or an instance of representing oneself: such as
a
: an artistic likeness or image of oneself
Social media self-representations can be a site for creativity, showcasing photography, clothing ensembles, hair and make-up, making memes and so on. Kate Douglas
The exhibit organizes about 50 paintings into four thematic sections exploring black histories, experiences and self-representations. Pamela Reynold
b
: the act or action of serving as one's own lawyer in a legal matter especially in court
a person's right to self-representation
Experts say financial considerations are at the heart of most self-representations, since legal aid frequently will not cover costs when someone is being tried for a minor offence and can't always be counted on when more serious charges are at play. Michelle McQuigge

Note: In legal terminology, a person who engages in self-representation can be said to be acting pro se or in propria persona.

Examples of self-representation in a Sentence

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.
As a description of the self-representation of the French and American Revolutions, this might be true. Foreign Affairs, 25 Feb. 2025 The alternative is self-representation, but navigating the legal system without training is overwhelming. Chris Gallagher, USA TODAY, 27 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1696, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-representation was in 1696

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Cite this Entry

“Self-representation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-representation. Accessed 31 Mar. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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