self-expression

noun

self-ex·​pres·​sion ˌself-ik-ˈspre-shən How to pronounce self-expression (audio)
: the expression of one's own personality : assertion of one's individual traits
self-expressive adjective

Examples of self-expression in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Carbone said she was encouraged to support A.’s self-expression around gender. Kevin Rector, Los Angeles Times, 4 Mar. 2024 Her fearless self-expression through vibrant colors and patterns, coupled with her status as the oldest figure in the room—a feat that is no easy task in the realm of fashion—set her apart, serving as an inspiration to cultivate a distinct brand identity. Jeetendr Sehdev, Forbes, 2 Mar. 2024 The party serves as a fundraiser for Girls Rock! DC, which empowers young women and nonbinary youth to use music as a way to build confidence and as a form of self-expression. Mark Jenkins, Washington Post, 29 Feb. 2024 The campaign highlights its linen fabric and centers around championing originality, self-expression, dance, fashion, and music. Kerane Marcellus, Essence, 27 Feb. 2024 The parenting style encourages kids to express themselves—and sometimes, for toddlers, that self-expression involves throwing fits. Kate Cray, The Atlantic, 27 Feb. 2024 The safe, swaddling allure of quiet luxury, the sort of luxury that was as much of a local specialty as risotto alla Milanese, seems less and less consequential — a sort of relaxed, neutral approach to self-expression that no longer jibes with the increasing urgency of the world. Vanessa Friedman, New York Times, 25 Feb. 2024 In addition to advocating for authenticity and self-expression, Jerlecki hopes people will learn that there’s more to business than what turns a profit. Zoey Lyttle, Peoplemag, 22 Feb. 2024 Beyoncé also opened up to Essence about the beauty of self-care and self-expression. Jackie Fields, Peoplemag, 20 Feb. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'self-expression.' 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

1892, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-expression was in 1892

Dictionary Entries Near self-expression

Cite this Entry

“Self-expression.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-expression. Accessed 18 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

self-expression

noun
self-ex·​pres·​sion
ˌsel-fik-ˈspresh-ən
: the expression of one's own personality

More from Merriam-Webster on self-expression

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