self-love

American  

[self-luhv] / ˈsɛlfˈlʌv /

noun

1. the instinct by which one's actions are directed to the promotion of one's own welfare or well-being, especially an excessive regard for one's own advantage.

2. conceit; vanity.

3. narcissism.

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self-love British  

noun

1. the instinct or tendency to seek one's own well-being or to further one's own interest

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Other Word Forms

• self-loving adjective

Etymology

Origin of self-love

First recorded in 1555–65

Example Sentences

The Love Yourself albums, which centered on self-love, mental health and personal growth resonated across cultures.

From BBC • Apr. 8, 2026

The self-love script took hold in part because it offered a comforting narrative.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 2, 2026

But even if you haven’t surrendered to the catchiness of “Golden,” the plot’s infectious reflections on acceptance and self-love are unimpeachable for fans of any age.

From Salon • Dec. 19, 2025

For Collins, “Shirley Valentine” was more than just an ode to womanhood, self-love and self-discovery.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 6, 2025

The Labadists in particular embraced simple communal living and sacrifice in order to flush out the poisons of self-love.

From "The Girl Who Drew Butterflies: How Maria Merian's Art Changed Science" by Joyce Sidman