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

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.
This means by which unification takes place, by which forgiveness is possible, by which mercy arrives, by which self-respect is regained is via the transference of humiliation to a plastic black form. Literary Hub, 3 Feb. 2026 Under the mentorship of Mr. Miyagi, Daniel learns that self-defense is about balance, self-respect, and emotional control. Lauren Brown West-Rosenthal, Parents, 1 Feb. 2026 That happens through predictable acts of self-respect, rather than just affirmations. Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 28 Jan. 2026 Value yourself — self-respect guides smarter choices. Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 26 Jan. 2026 Productivity hits different when it’s rooted in self-respect. Dossé-Via Trenou, Refinery29, 18 Jan. 2026 Here, the love planet sees (and shows us) the beauty of consistency, loyalty and long-term investments, whether that’s choosing self-respect or fully committing to a partner. Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 15 Jan. 2026 Partnerships become clearer as messenger Mercury informs your relationships, while expansive Jupiter highlights your identity needs and self-respect. Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 14 Jan. 2026

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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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

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

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