self-esteem

[self-i-steem, self-]

noun

1. a realistic respect for or favorable impression of oneself; self-respect.

   Antonyms: diffidence

2. an inordinately or exaggeratedly favorable impression of oneself.

   Her self-esteem can sometimes be very annoying.

   Antonyms: diffidence

self-esteem

noun

1. respect for or a favourable opinion of oneself

2. an unduly high opinion of oneself; vanity

Word History and Origins

Origin of self-esteem¹

First recorded in 1650–60

Synonym Study

See pride.

Example Sentences

This can impact your relationship by making partners feel ignored and parental phone use can really affect children from weakening bonds with younger kids and denting self-esteem in older ones.

Read more on BBC

Simon Hart, principal of Springwest Academy in west London, said his school had brought in a "culture of kindness" to promote feelings of staff belonging, trust and self-esteem.

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She added that understanding these relationships could reveal how certain symptoms, such as poor sleep, may trigger others like reduced concentration and self-esteem.

Read more on Science Daily

Helen said Joe's teacher described him as "capable, but lacking self-esteem".

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She joined the speakers’ circuit in the early 1990s, giving talks about work-life balance, self-esteem and time management at computer conferences and for other professional groups.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• confidence 
• dignity 
• morale 
• self-respect