self-respect

noun

self-re·​spect ˌself-ri-ˈspekt How to pronounce self-respect (audio)
1
: a proper respect for oneself as a human being
2
: regard for one's own standing or position

Examples of self-respect in a Sentence

getting a job and moving out of his parents' house did a lot to increase his self-respect
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.
Morehouse continues to carry this torch, demonstrating that true sartorial excellence is rooted in legacy, identity, and self-respect. Leah Faye Cooper, Vogue, 20 Jan. 2025 Reclaim your self-respect, stand firm in your values and opinions and be willing to speak up or say no. Bryan Robinson, Forbes, 20 Jan. 2025 Why does Sip not have the self-respect to walk away from this toxic work environment? Kathleen Walsh, Vulture, 19 Jan. 2025 Penguin Random House Canada treats persons with disabilities with dignity so as to permit the person to maintain self-respect and the respect of other people. Hazlitt, 4 Jan. 2025 Letting go of pride is essential for resolving issues and nurturing growth, and can co-exist with upholding one’s boundaries and self-respect in a relationship. Mark Travers, Forbes, 31 Dec. 2024 The level of outward emotional expression here is simply kept at a level true to figures who may inwardly be reaching their boiling point, but are still held back by self-respect and polite manners. Dennis Harvey, Variety, 12 Dec. 2024 But this curious makeover falsifies everything that made The Wizard of Oz wonderful: its clarity about good vs. evil and the value of friendship, family, good deeds, and self-respect. Armond White, National Review, 27 Nov. 2024 Ensuring that conversations align with your integrity and beliefs is key to fostering self-respect and connection. Yaakov Katz, Newsweek, 27 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1765, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-respect was in 1765

Dictionary Entries Near self-respect

Cite this Entry

“Self-respect.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-respect. Accessed 27 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

self-respect

noun
self-re·​spect
ˌsel-fri-ˈspekt
1
: a proper respect for oneself as a human being
2
: regard for one's own standing or position
self-respecting
-ˈspek-tiŋ
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on self-respect

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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