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Showing results for self-expression. Search instead for selfexpression.

self-expression

American  
[self-ik-spresh-uhn, self-] / ˈsɛlf ɪkˈsprɛʃ ən, ˌsɛlf- /

noun

  1. the expression or assertion of one's own personality, as in conversation, behavior, poetry, or painting.


self-expression British  

noun

  1. the expression of one's own personality, feelings, etc, as in painting, poetry, or other creative activity

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

Etymology

Origin of self-expression

First recorded in 1890–95

Vocabulary lists containing self-expression

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.

See Examples For:

"Cold drinks are a form of self-expression," he says.

From BBC Aug. 29, 2026

They are the unwritten rules that delineate who is trying to look the part, who wants to stand out and how everyone balances professionalism with self-expression.

From The Wall Street Journal Aug. 6, 2026

Her friend, creative director Dana Sidell, says self-expression is central to how Weger lives her life.

From Los Angeles Times Jul. 27, 2026

It is that fandom, companionship, self-expression, and immersive experiences are becoming more formalized parts of the consumption story.

From Barron's Apr. 11, 2026

The arts maybe draw in more gays than any other area because of that feeling of being able to have self-expression without being condemned or labeled or ridiculed or bashed.”

From "Drama High" by Michael Sokolove

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