self-respect

noun

self-re·​spect ˌself-ri-ˈspekt How to pronounce self-respect (audio)
Synonyms of self-respectnext
1
: a proper respect for oneself as a human being
2
: regard for one's own standing or position

Synonyms

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Examples of self-respect in a Sentence

getting a job and moving out of his parents' house did a lot to increase his self-respect
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.
But his smiling at Black people on the street felt false and condescending, rooted in a wish to be accepted into this neighborhood of elegant brownstones and a quick subway line to Manhattan, while also cohabiting with Ulla, who was essential to his self-respect. — Kiran Desai, New Yorker, 3 Aug. 2025 But don’t forget that true leadership starts with self-respect. — Meghan Rose, Glamour, 1 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1765, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-respect was in 1765

Rhymes for self-respect

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Browse Nearby Words

self-rescuer
self-respect
self-respectful
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Cite this Entry

“Self-respect.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-respect. Accessed 13 Aug. 2025.

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Kids Definition

self-respect

noun
self-re·​spect
ˌsel-fri-ˈspekt
1
: a proper respect for oneself as a human being
2
: regard for one's own standing or position
self-respecting
-ˈspek-tiŋ
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on self-respect

Nglish: Translation of self-respect for Spanish Speakers

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