self-concept

noun

self-con·​cept ˈself-ˈkän-ˌsept How to pronounce self-concept (audio)
Synonyms of self-conceptnext
: the mental image one has of oneself

Examples of self-concept in a Sentence

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.
Next, there's the identity lag, where an outdated self-concept drives continued overexertion; and the illusion of recoverability, where believing resources can always fix health damage later down the road. — Julian Hayes Ii, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026 These can all hurt a woman’s self-concept, which shapes identity, self-image and self-esteem. — Helen Carefoot, Flow Space, 4 June 2026 To help maintain a stable self-concept, people selectively modify or even forget those memories that challenge their views of themselves. — Gabrielle Principe, The Conversation, 5 May 2026 As an online representation of identity, an avatar can be similar to the user’s self-concept, entirely fictitious, or somewhere in between. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 17 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for self-concept

Word History

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-concept was in 1891

Rhymes for self-concept

See All Rhymes for self-concept

Browse Nearby Words

self-concentered
self-concept
self-conception
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Self-concept.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-concept. Accessed 7 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

self-concept

noun
self-con·​cept
ˈself-ˈkän-ˌsept
: the mental image one has of oneself

Medical Definition

self-concept

noun
self-con·​cept ˈself-ˈkän-ˌsept How to pronounce self-concept (audio)
: the mental image one has of oneself

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