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social-emotional learning

American  
[soh-shuhl-i-moh-shuh-nl lur-ning] / ˈsoʊ ʃəl ɪˈmoʊ ʃə nl ˈlɜr nɪŋ /

noun

Education, Psychology.
  1. the process of acquiring interpersonal and emotional skills such as empathy, cooperation, conflict resolution, self-awareness, and self-control. SEL


Etymology

Origin of social-emotional learning

First recorded in 1995–2000

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 while it may have a new term, social-emotional learning has always been a vital function of education.

From Salon • Mar. 30, 2026

Schools now provide increased social-emotional learning and mental health support.

From Slate • Aug. 3, 2024

Over the years, Feinstein had not only lent her name to the school but also provided “generous donations to support the library, technology, social-emotional learning and much more,” Zaki said.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 1, 2023

Over the years, teachers were required to take instruction in social-emotional learning and accept an increase in mandated compliance training to monitor for neglect and child abuse.

From Washington Post • Mar. 8, 2023

Schools must start with social-emotional learning instruction for children in grades K-3.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 24, 2022