self-esteem

noun

self-es·​teem ˌself-ə-ˈstēm How to pronounce self-esteem (audio)
1
: a confidence and satisfaction in oneself : self-respect
2

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 For instance, rose quartz is known for attracting love and improving self-esteem. Lisa Stardust, Peoplemag, 28 Apr. 2024 Taking it improved their self-esteem and gave them a newfound pride in their ancestors, many Black teens said. USA TODAY, 28 Apr. 2024 Practicing self-compassion and positive self-talk can also bolster self-esteem and resilience in the face of challenges. King Holder, Rolling Stone, 26 Apr. 2024 Working a full day will give him a skill set, some money in his pocket, and self-esteem. Amy Dickinson, Detroit Free Press, 24 Apr. 2024 Those who run in pursuit of validation on social media rather than for self-betterment could find that the process leaves them empty, or with low self-esteem. Maggie Mertens, The Atlantic, 23 Apr. 2024 He’s lost a friend who could build up his self-esteem and confidence and could motivate anybody even in the toughest of times. James Hartley, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 23 Apr. 2024 Work on your self-esteem, looking and feeling your best, and putting yourself first. Eugenia Last, The Mercury News, 22 Apr. 2024 The always-on gadgets that were supposed to make my life easier, more fun, and more productive, now often disrupt my sleep, ruin any semblance of work-life balance, and wipe out my self-esteem. Jennifer Jolly, USA TODAY, 16 Apr. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'self-esteem.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1619, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-esteem was in 1619

Dictionary Entries Near self-esteem

Cite this Entry

“Self-esteem.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-esteem. Accessed 9 May. 2024.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on self-esteem

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