self-identification

American  

[self-ahy-den-tuh-fi-key-shuhn, -i-den-, self-] / ˈsɛlf aɪˌdɛn tə fɪˈkeɪ ʃən, -ɪˌdɛn-, ˌsɛlf- /

noun

1. identification of oneself with some other person or thing.

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Etymology

Origin of self-identification

First recorded in 1950–55

Example Sentences

An alleged victim’s self-identification as such, Mr. Clayton told the judges, is all that is required for the department to conceal records on her behalf or remove records entirely.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 4, 2026

As in nondigital spaces, the motivation behind that self-identification can be born from a genuine desire to share and connect with others, or it can be ego-driven.

From Slate • Sep. 10, 2025

The Crumbs moved often, which only heightened Robert’s self-identification as a misfit.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 11, 2025

"I started to learn what misogyny was, and I started to learn what patriarchy was," Schneider explained about her move from the religious right to her current self-identification as a moderate.

From Salon • Oct. 21, 2024

There are probably as many political tongues as there are circumstances of self-identification within a society.

From The Civilization of Illiteracy by Nadin, Mihai