self-actualize

verb

self-ac·​tu·​al·​ize ˌself-ˈak-ch(ə-w)ə-ˌlīz How to pronounce self-actualize (audio)
-sh(ə-w)ə-ˌlīz
self-actualized; self-actualizing; self-actualizes

intransitive verb

: to realize fully one's potential
self-actualization noun

Examples of self-actualize in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web We’re conditioned—especially at this time of year—to self-inspect and self-improve in order to self-actualize. Raven Smith, Vogue, 10 Jan. 2024 Her music feels self-actualized in its range — bold and free-spirited. Julissa James, Los Angeles Times, 7 Dec. 2023 Abraham sets out to rescue her, and redemptive high jinks ensue — or, in Horwitz’s version, self-actualizing high jinks that renounce the need for redemption. Sara Holdren, Vulture, 22 Sep. 2023 And while there’s acclaim and cultural cachet in those moments, Prodigy’s voice alone provides a moment for people to self-actualize. Kenyatta Victoria, Essence, 7 Sep. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'self-actualize.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1874, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-actualize was in 1874

Dictionary Entries Near self-actualize

Cite this Entry

“Self-actualize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-actualize. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

self-actualize

verb
self-ac·​tu·​al·​ize
ˌsel-ˈfak-ch(ə-w)əl-ˌīz,
-sh(ə-w)əl-
: to realize fully one's potential
self-actualization
-ˌfak-ch(ə-w)ə-lə-ˈzā-shən
-ˌfaksh-wə-
noun

Medical Definition

self-actualize

intransitive verb
self-ac·​tu·​al·​ize
variants also British self-actualise
self-actualized also British self-actualised; self-actualizing also British self-actualising
: to realize fully one's potential
self-actualization noun
also British self-actualisation
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