self-identification

American  

[self-ahy-den-tuh-fi-key-shuhn, -i-den-, self-] / ˈsɛlf aɪˌdɛn tə fɪˈkeɪ ʃən, -ɪˌdɛn-, ˌsɛlf- /

noun

1. identification of oneself with some other person or thing.

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Etymology

Origin of self-identification

First recorded in 1950–55

Example Sentences

Critics further argue that the new definition could exclude many transgender people, particularly those who rely on self-identification, including some trans men and women as well as non-binary and gender-fluid people.

From BBC • Mar. 26, 2026

An alleged victim’s self-identification as such, Mr. Clayton told the judges, is all that is required for the department to conceal records on her behalf or remove records entirely.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 4, 2026

But the profound cultural shift regarding public and private spheres is, at its core, about self-identification.

From Slate • Sep. 10, 2025

"I started to learn what misogyny was, and I started to learn what patriarchy was," Schneider explained about her move from the religious right to her current self-identification as a moderate.

From Salon • Oct. 21, 2024

But even if we manage to establish methods for successful replication, have we captured the characteristics of human self-identification?

From The Civilization of Illiteracy by Nadin, Mihai