self-loathing

noun

self-loath·​ing ˌself-ˈlō-ṯẖiŋ 

: loathing of oneself : self-hatred

acting out of fear and self-loathing

… the idea that the self-absorption and egotism of the narcissist are a pose to mask their opposite: a deep well of self-loathing and low self-esteem.

—Jeffrey Kluger

self-loathing adjective

… his life as a self-loathing sensualist, an incautious but easily damaged artist …

—A. L. Kennedy

… stars as a self-loathing English writer who writes Hollywood sitcoms for his actress wife …

—Giselle Benatar

Examples of self-loathing in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Daniel Brühl is transformative as the haughty, brilliant and self-loathing Lagerfeld. —Scott Roxborough, The Hollywood Reporter, 27 Nov. 2024

Every character in this story gets their own voice — the novel’s polyphonic structure comprises 21 first-person chapters, a daisy chain of regret, anger, humor and self-loathing. —Tomi Obaro, Vulture, 21 Nov. 2024

But there's also bad shame that will keep you in self-loathing. —Caroline Thayer, Fox News, 12 Sep. 2024

While Moore nails the despair, self-loathing and insecurity of a woman in a world that values appearances above all else, Qualley is just as fearless as the woman who benefits from it. —Jenelle Riley, Variety, 31 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1635, in the meaning defined above