self-devotion

American  

[self-di-voh-shuhn, self-] / ˈsɛlf dɪˈvoʊ ʃən, ˌsɛlf- /

noun

1. intense devotion of oneself to an activity or to a field or profession, as art or science.

2. devotion of oneself to the care or service of another or others; self-sacrifice.

   Her self-devotion to her sick mother prevented her from finishing college.

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Other Word Forms

• self-devotedness
  noun
• self-devoted
  adjective
• self-devotedly
  adverb

Etymology

Origin of self-devotion

First recorded in 1805–15

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

self-devotion

The lesser-known “vulnerable” variety of self-devotion afflicts more reserved, fragile individuals who may resemble the self-effacing and thin-skinned characters portrayed by Woody Allen in his films.

From Scientific American ● Feb. 5, 2013

"No man in the world was ever so sincere and modest in his self-devotion," wrote Marie in her secret notebook.

From Time Magazine Archive

But the sea is not without its dangers, for the rapacious Black-backed Gull frequently attacks them, and, but for the self-devotion and bravery of the mother bird, would commit great havoc among them.

From British Birds in their Haunts by Johns, Rev. C. A.

They owe each other secrecy when they mutually entrust their dearest interests; they owe each other self-devotion when they need each other’s help.

From Elements of Morals With Special Application of the Moral Law to the Duties of the Individual and of Society and the State by Janet, Paul

Then patriotism is eloquent, then self-devotion is eloquent....

From The Brothers' War by Reed, John Calvin