self-esteem

noun

self-es·​teem ˌself-ə-ˈstēm 

1

: a confidence and satisfaction in oneself : self-respect

2

: self-conceit

Synonyms

• ego
• pride
• pridefulness
• self-regard
• self-respect

Examples of self-esteem in a Sentence

friends and family have tried to help the shy child develop some self-esteem

his towering self-esteem made praise from other people entirely unnecessary

the kind of self-esteem that a struggling actor needs to keep going in the face of constant discouragement and rejection

Recent Examples on the Web

The sun’s connection with Chiron heals a self-esteem wound. —USA TODAY, 10 Dec. 2024

In addition, research from Washington State University found that large proportions of people suffer from FOMO (fear of missing out) and social anxiety—which are in turn correlated with low self-esteem and low self-compassion. —Tracy Brower, Forbes, 8 Dec. 2024

The secrecy weighed heavily on Tisdale’s self-esteem. —Sandra Rose Salathe, Flow Space, 6 Dec. 2024

For teenagers especially, these comments can be damaging to their self-esteem, and should be shut down. —​wendy Wisner, Parents, 6 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1619, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

self-esteem

noun

self-es·​teem

ˌsel-fə-ˈstēm

1

: a confidence and satisfaction in oneself : self-respect

2

: an exaggerated opinion of one's own abilities : self-conceit