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

Despite the huge variety, they're all about journeys of self-discovery and the appreciation of what's important in life.

From BBC • Dec. 13, 2025

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

Rockwell’s Jane and Redmond’s Petunia, while conceived in more flamboyant comic terms, are granted their own moments of self-discovery.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 14, 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