self-examination

noun

self-ex·​am·​i·​na·​tion ˌself-ig-ˌza-mə-ˈnā-shən How to pronounce self-examination (audio)
1
: a reflective examination (as of one's beliefs or motives) : introspection
2
: examination of one's body especially for evidence of disease

Examples of self-examination in a Sentence

many people use the dawning of a new year as an occasion for some quiet self-examination
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.
Exploration fosters self-examination under the Scorpio new moon. USA TODAY, 1 Nov. 2024 While adult women may understand clearly the need for self-examination and regular mammograms, the Pink Jet’s striking hot magenta-and-bubblegum paint scheme connects with an equally important segment—girls in their elementary and preteen years. Julie Boatman, Robb Report, 29 Oct. 2024 With Scorpio season in full force, this time of the year encourages us to do deep self-examination to face our shadow sides. Kyle Thomas, People.com, 27 Oct. 2024 As recovery experts will say, sobriety also means a daily commitment to a new lifestyle, a focus on self-care and sometimes painful self-examination in order to transform self-destructive behaviors and attitudes into positive, healthy ones. Martha Ross, The Mercury News, 25 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for self-examination 

Word History

First Known Use

1625, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-examination was in 1625

Dictionary Entries Near self-examination

Cite this Entry

“Self-examination.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-examination. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

self-examination

noun
self-ex·​am·​i·​na·​tion -ig-ˌzam-ə-ˈnā-shən How to pronounce self-examination (audio)
variants or self-exam
: examination of one's body especially for evidence of disease
regular self-examination for early detection of breast cancer
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!