individualism
noun
in·di·vid·u·al·ism
ˌin-də-ˈvi-jə-wə-ˌli-zəm 
-ˈvij-wə-,
-ˈvi-jə-ˌli-
1
a(1)
: a doctrine that the interests of the individual are or ought to be ethically paramount
also
: conduct guided by such a doctrine
(2)
: the conception that all values, rights, and duties originate in individuals
b
: a theory maintaining the political and economic independence of the individual and stressing individual initiative, action, and interests
also
: conduct or practice guided by such a theory
2
a
b
: an individual peculiarity : idiosyncrasy
Examples of individualism in a Sentence
a society that believes strongly in individualism
He was respected for his self-reliance and individualism.
Recent Examples on the Web
As much as any other institution—schools, libraries, churches—the public-health system has helped propagate the idea of a commons, often working against historical inertia to curb the excesses of American individualism.
—
Vann R. Newkirk Ii, The Atlantic, 9 Feb. 2026
These Iranians embrace individualism and global culture through the internet, and simply want to exist and act as citizens within their society.
—Ramin Jahanbegloo, Time, 3 Feb. 2026
According to the outlet, the belief is that photos or other physical depictions, such as paintings or film, can encourage vanity and individualism — traits that conflict with their emphasis on humility.
—Stephanie Nolasco, FOXNews.com, 3 Feb. 2026
The province has a unique political and cultural identity, driven by its strong energy and agricultural sectors, commitment to economic individualism, and low taxes.
—Lex Harvey, CNN Money, 30 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for individualism
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Vann R. Newkirk Ii, The Atlantic, 9 Feb. 2026
These Iranians embrace individualism and global culture through the internet, and simply want to exist and act as citizens within their society.
—Ramin Jahanbegloo, Time, 3 Feb. 2026
According to the outlet, the belief is that photos or other physical depictions, such as paintings or film, can encourage vanity and individualism — traits that conflict with their emphasis on humility.
—Stephanie Nolasco, FOXNews.com, 3 Feb. 2026
The province has a unique political and cultural identity, driven by its strong energy and agricultural sectors, commitment to economic individualism, and low taxes.
—Lex Harvey, CNN Money, 30 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for individualism
Cite this Entry
“Individualism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/individualism. Accessed 15 Feb. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
individualism
noun
in·di·vid·u·al·ism
ˌin-də-ˈvij(ə-)wə-ˌliz-əm
-ˈvij-ə-ˌliz-
1
: a belief that the interests of the individual are of the greatest importance
2
: a belief that the individual has political or economic rights with which the state must not interfere
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