self-respect

American  

[self-ri-spekt, self-] / ˈsɛlf rɪˈspɛkt, ˌsɛlf- /

noun

1. proper esteem or regard for the dignity of one's character.

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self-respect British  

noun

1. a proper sense of one's own dignity and integrity

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Other Word Forms

• self-respectful
  adjective
• self-respecting
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of self-respect

First recorded in 1605–15

Explanation

When you feel proud of yourself, you have self-respect. If you act in an unfair or unkind way toward someone else, you might lose your self-respect. Things that make you feel good about the kind of person you are are great for building self-respect. If you cheat on a test, you're likely to lose some of that self-respect, but you may be able to regain it by admitting what you did to your teacher and making amends. You can also use the words dignity or self-worth.

Related Words

• dignity
• pride
• self-assurance
• self-confidence
• self-esteem
• self-worth