self-respect
Americannoun
noun
Other Word Forms
Derived Forms
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.
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.
"Secrets diminish self respect," she said, according to the Tribune.
From Barron's • May 14, 2026
It almost feels like some kind of test, where you are forced to sublimate your wishes and, perhaps, your self respect.
From MarketWatch • Feb. 5, 2026
“I knew in this very moment I would allow myself to take back my light, show victory over my internal battle of self respect, and brave this world with piercing clarity,” the post said.
From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 3, 2023
"That's not bitterness, that's self respect," says Dacus.
From BBC • Mar. 30, 2023
Self Esteem rightly exercised confers self respect, a due regard to rank or station, and induces confidence in one’s own abilities; the organ is placed just at the top or crown of the head.
From Christian Phrenology A Guide to Self-Knowledge by Bunney, Joseph
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
