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

Example Sentences

Just because the strident crunch of Freya Ridings' recent singles conjures up images of a medieval army riding into battle, that doesn't mean she's a warrior queen blessed with bottomless self-confidence.

From BBC • Mar. 28, 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

"Iceland is strong economically, but also in terms of national self-confidence, and thus able to make this decision," she said.

From Barron's • Mar. 6, 2026

He recently told Sports Illustrated, however, that his self-confidence should not be mistaken for arrogance.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 15, 2025

But with guidance, as they developed self-confidence and maturity, they moved on to other jobs, gravitating toward those that would suit their own interests and skills.

From "The Giver" by Lois Lowry

Related Words

• self-assurance