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Showing results for self-expression. Search instead for self-expressions.

self-expression

American  
[self-ik-spresh-uhn, self-] / ˈsɛlf ɪkˈsprɛʃ ən, ˌsɛlf- /

noun

  1. the expression or assertion of one's own personality, as in conversation, behavior, poetry, or painting.


self-expression British  

noun

  1. the expression of one's own personality, feelings, etc, as in painting, poetry, or other creative activity

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

Etymology

Origin of self-expression

First recorded in 1890–95

Vocabulary lists containing self-expression

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But she added that it can also play an important role in children's lives "by supporting communication, self-expression, access to information, participation, play, and connection with communities and support networks".

From BBC • May 29, 2026

It is that fandom, companionship, self-expression, and immersive experiences are becoming more formalized parts of the consumption story.

From Barron's • Apr. 11, 2026

The film is also a deceptively heartwarming ode to self-expression, and the kind of life that can be cobbled together with an unyielding commitment to individuality.

From Salon • Mar. 27, 2026

The aesthetic—defined by color, self-expression and a kind of accessible euphoria—reflects a generational move toward communities built through presence rather than platforms.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 23, 2025

The arts maybe draw in more gays than any other area because of that feeling of being able to have self-expression without being condemned or labeled or ridiculed or bashed.”

From "Drama High" by Michael Sokolove

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