solipsism
Americannoun
-
Philosophy. the theory that only the self exists, or can be proved to exist.
-
extreme preoccupation with and indulgence of one's feelings, desires, etc.; egoistic self-absorption.
noun
Other Word Forms
Derived Forms
Etymology
Origin of solipsism
Explanation
Solipsism is the philosophical theory that what's in your mind is the only reality that can be known and verified. Solipsism comes from the Latin words for alone (sol) and self (ipse), and means that only the self is real. In metaphysical solipsism, your mind is the only thing that's real, and everything else is just a representation. In epistemological solipsism, there might be a world outside your mind, which you could detect with your senses, but it's impossible to prove. In methodological solipsism the self is the only proper starting point for exploring the nature of reality.
Vocabulary lists containing solipsism
300 Most Difficult "SAT" Words
Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!
1984
Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!
Burning Blue
Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Solipsism does not fully explain England’s many and varied disappointments over the last 55 years, but it is certainly a contributory factor.
From New York Times • Jul. 11, 2021
Solipsism has turned into shtick, and their childish interest in themselves betrays a confining lack of curiosity about anything else.
From New York Times • Jun. 11, 2013
Solipsism — throughout all of Wallace’s fiction — is the great danger of modern life.
From Time • May 19, 2013
The Story of My Solipsism It’s hard to like the book when you despise the narrator.
From Slate • Mar. 1, 2013
If his system had all the logical errors charged to Solipsism, it had all the efficacy of strong conviction and its moral import in developing individuality of character and equanimity of temper cannot be gainsaid.
From Bushido, the Soul of Japan by Nitobe, Inazo
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
