self-determination
noun
self-de·ter·mi·na·tion
ˌself-di-ˌtər-mə-ˈnā-shən 
1
: free choice of one's own acts or states without external compulsion
2
: determination by the people of a territorial unit of their own future political status
Examples of self-determination in a Sentence
the United States officially recognizes 18 as the age at which someone is entitled to self-determination
rebels fighting for the territory's self-determination
Recent Examples on the Web
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Meanwhile, telling the Palestinians that national self-determination is a natural right of all peoples is a lie.
—
Justin Gest, Newsweek, 11 Feb. 2025
In 2005, the new Iraqi constitution granted the Kurdish territory in Northern Iraq federal status, marking a historic moment in Kurdish self-determination.
—Sefa Secen & Serhun Al / Made By History, TIME, 7 Feb. 2025
The only way forward is to dismantle Hamas, empower Palestinian leaders who reject extremism and invest in a long-term solution where both peoples can live with security, dignity and self-determination.
—Hen Mazzig, Sun Sentinel, 6 Feb. 2025
The bill provides no details on funding, no guarantee of compliance with IDEA (which protects disabled students’ right to free and appropriate education), and no safeguards for students’ self-determination.
—Sierra Bush Rester, Orlando Sentinel, 5 Feb. 2025
See all Example Sentences for self-determination 
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Justin Gest, Newsweek, 11 Feb. 2025
In 2005, the new Iraqi constitution granted the Kurdish territory in Northern Iraq federal status, marking a historic moment in Kurdish self-determination.
—Sefa Secen & Serhun Al / Made By History, TIME, 7 Feb. 2025
The only way forward is to dismantle Hamas, empower Palestinian leaders who reject extremism and invest in a long-term solution where both peoples can live with security, dignity and self-determination.
—Hen Mazzig, Sun Sentinel, 6 Feb. 2025
The bill provides no details on funding, no guarantee of compliance with IDEA (which protects disabled students’ right to free and appropriate education), and no safeguards for students’ self-determination.
—Sierra Bush Rester, Orlando Sentinel, 5 Feb. 2025
See all Example Sentences for self-determination
Dictionary Entries Near self-determination
Cite this Entry
“Self-determination.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-determination. Accessed 20 Feb. 2025.
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