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
Advertising sells cars not as machines but as identities—rugged individualism, sophistication, rebellion.
—
Henrietta Moore, Fortune, 16 Sep. 2025
In fashion, as in politics, collectivism might make life better, but individualism often prevails.
—Lauren Collins, New Yorker, 15 Sep. 2025
National conservatism is notable for being a particularly illiberal ideology in many ways, one of which is the rejection of individualism.
—Rafael Perez, Oc Register, 14 Sep. 2025
Whether through meditation, prayer, ritual, or service, spiritual engagement appears to offer a sense of belonging and alignment with something greater—an antidote to isolation and meaninglessness in an age that often prizes individualism.
—Robert B. Tucker, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for individualism
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Henrietta Moore, Fortune, 16 Sep. 2025
In fashion, as in politics, collectivism might make life better, but individualism often prevails.
—Lauren Collins, New Yorker, 15 Sep. 2025
National conservatism is notable for being a particularly illiberal ideology in many ways, one of which is the rejection of individualism.
—Rafael Perez, Oc Register, 14 Sep. 2025
Whether through meditation, prayer, ritual, or service, spiritual engagement appears to offer a sense of belonging and alignment with something greater—an antidote to isolation and meaninglessness in an age that often prizes individualism.
—Robert B. Tucker, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for individualism
Cite this Entry
“Individualism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/individualism. Accessed 21 Sep. 2025.
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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