self-mastery

noun

self-mas·​tery ˌself-ˈmas-t(ə-)rē How to pronounce self-mastery (audio)
Synonyms of self-masterynext
: the ability to control one's own desires or impulses : self-control, self-discipline
However, I realized the wisdom of Rooke's advice, and went away by myself to get over my anger and reacquire my self-mastery.Bram Stoker
Self-esteem that is not backed by self-mastery becomes narcissism.Gracie Bonds Staples

Synonyms of self-mastery

Examples of self-mastery in a Sentence

she had remarkable self-mastery for one so young
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.
This period isn’t bereft of opportunity, but it’s interspersed with learning experiences at the hands of people who still haven’t done any self-mastery work. Magi Helena, Dallas Morning News, 31 Jan. 2026 Aquarius' 2026 career horoscope Commit to your self-mastery. Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 30 Jan. 2026 Understanding yourself is one of the keys to self-mastery, open to new awareness. Tribune Content Agency, Baltimore Sun, 6 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1652, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-mastery was in 1652

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Cite this Entry

“Self-mastery.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-mastery. Accessed 15 Feb. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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