self-confidence

American  

[self-kon-fi-duhns, self-] / ˌsɛlfˈkɒn fɪ dəns, ˈsɛlf- /

Also self-assurance

noun

1. realistic confidence in one's own judgment, ability, power, etc.

   Synonyms:

   poise, self-respect, self-possession, assurance

2. excessive or inflated confidence in one's own judgment, ability, etc.

   Synonyms:

   self-esteem, conceit

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self-confidence British  

noun

1. confidence in one's own powers, judgment, etc

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Other Word Forms

• self-confident adjective
• self-confidently adverb

Etymology

Origin of self-confidence

First recorded in 1630–40

Explanation

Self-confidence is a characteristic of believing firmly in your own abilities and strengths. It took a lot of self-confidence to speak up in that student council meeting and say what you were thinking! If you have no doubt that you'll be able to perform your new song at the school talent show, you've got self-confidence. We've been using this noun since the 17th century for a particular type of confidence that's focused on individual strength and the absence of self-doubt. Your self-confidence is what allows you to do things confidently, assuredly, and with conviction.

Example Sentences

His self-confidence stems from a deep understanding of the rival he faces.

From BBC • Apr. 1, 2026

Parents say having positive women of color as role models is crucial for building self-confidence in girls of color.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 27, 2026

Most gallingly for their menfolk, these previously disenchanted wives had also found self-confidence and a notable degree of emotional independence.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 27, 2026

"It boosted my self-confidence, my health, and I became more willing to learn new things, to take on new challenges."

From Barron's • Feb. 16, 2026

A veneer of jaunty self-confidence thinly concealed his nervousness.

From "Brave New World" by Aldous Huxley

Related Words

• self-assurance