self-discovery

American  

[self-di-skuhv-uh-ree] / ˌsɛlf dɪˈskʌv ə ri /

noun

1. the act or process of coming to recognize and understand one’s own assumptions, priorities, behavior, strengths and weaknesses, etc..

   College is a time of self-discovery and formation for students.

   Decades of suffering and years of therapy culminated in this emotional moment of self-discovery and forgiveness.

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Etymology

Origin of self-discovery

First recorded in 1640–50

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

self-discovery

Taking care of one’s vehicle was more than a dreary obligation, Muir’s book advised; it could be a route to self-discovery as well.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Dec. 5, 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 absurdity of this journey of self-discovery has crept on me often.

From Slate ● Sep. 5, 2025

The Weeknd, whose real name is Abel Tesfaye, is wrapping up his three-album journey of self-discovery and annihilation with the release of his sixth studio album, "Hurry Up Tomorrow."

From Salon ● Feb. 22, 2025

I laughed, deep, deep inside me, giddy with the delight of self-discovery and the desire to hide it.

From "Invisible Man" by Ralph Ellison