self-esteem

American  

[self-i-steem, self-] / ˈsɛlf ɪˈstim, ˌsɛlf- /

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

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self-esteem British  

noun

1. respect for or a favourable opinion of oneself

2. an unduly high opinion of oneself; vanity

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Related Words

See pride.

Etymology

Origin of self-esteem

First recorded in 1650–60

Compare meaning

How does self-esteem compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• self-worth vs. self-esteem

Example Sentences

Much of the current research focuses on depression, while other important outcomes such as anxiety, stress, externalizing behaviors, self-esteem and aggression have received far less attention.

From Science Daily • Mar. 29, 2026

South Wales Police is investigating, while online safety lawyer Yair Cohen said people who catfish in this way do so because they are frequently motivated by "low self-esteem" and enjoy the power it gives them.

From BBC • Mar. 11, 2026

“It was a self-esteem issue. It was an issue of me saying to myself, ‘You’re not good enough.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 11, 2026

And many young people are being encouraged to look at childhood as a primary cause of their depression, anxiety and low self-esteem.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 11, 2026

I watched impassively as they led him through the front door, his head bowed, his hands manacled, his self-esteem drained, his manhood sapped.

From "Kaffir Boy: An Autobiography" by Mark Mathabane

Related Words

• confidence
• dignity
• morale
• self-respect