self-recognition

noun

self-rec·​og·​ni·​tion ˌself-ˌre-kig-ˈni-shən How to pronounce self-recognition (audio)
-kəg-
Synonyms of self-recognitionnext
1
: recognition of one's own self
2
: the process by which the immune system of an organism distinguishes between the body's own chemicals, cells, and tissues and those of foreign organisms and agents

Examples of self-recognition in a Sentence

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.
According to a new study published in PLOS One, both animals show the behavioral hallmarks of mirror self-recognition—a cognitive ability long considered a marker of self-awareness, and one that had never before been documented in beluga whales. — Federica Sgorbissa, ArsTechnica, 24 May 2026 Research from Frontiers in Neurology and Neuroscience links susceptibility to contagious yawning with theory of mind, self-recognition and activation of brain regions associated with social cognition and empathy. — Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 17 Apr. 2026 Lent is a time of preparation and self-recognition before Easter. — Marina Johnson, Louisville Courier Journal, 30 Mar. 2026 Lent is a time of preparation and self-recognition prior to Easter. — Marina Johnson, IndyStar, 20 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for self-recognition

Word History

First Known Use

1777, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-recognition was in 1777

Rhymes for self-recognition

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Browse Nearby Words

self-realizing
self-recognition
self-recording
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Self-recognition.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-recognition. Accessed 12 Jul. 2026.

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Medical Definition

self-recognition

noun
self-rec·​og·​ni·​tion -ˌrek-əg-ˈnish-ən How to pronounce self-recognition (audio)
: the process by which the immune system of an organism distinguishes between the body's own chemicals, cells, and tissues and those of foreign organisms or agents compare self-tolerance

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