self-esteem

noun

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

Synonyms of self-esteem

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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
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.
That’s good, because healthy friendships can make kids happier, improve their self-esteem and resilience, and protect against loneliness and depression. — Kara Alaimo, CNN Money, 4 Aug. 2026 Research has found that hair loss can negatively affect self-esteem, social interactions and overall quality of life, making even gradual thinning much more than a cosmetic concern. — Daryl Austin, USA Today, 31 July 2026 However, if your sadness and lack of self-esteem don’t lessen, then discuss this with a licensed mental health professional. — Jeanne Phillips, Mercury News, 29 July 2026 Kids with behavioral needs benefit from improving their self-esteem and self-control. — Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 20 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for self-esteem

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

Rhymes for self-esteem

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Browse Nearby Words

self-enrichment
self-esteem
self-esterification
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Cite this Entry

“Self-esteem.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-esteem. Accessed 6 Aug. 2026.

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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

Nglish: Translation of self-esteem for Spanish Speakers

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