self-expression

noun

self-ex·​pres·​sion ˌself-ik-ˈspre-shən How to pronounce self-expression (audio)
: the expression of one's own personality : assertion of one's individual traits
self-expressive
ˌself-ik-ˈspre-siv How to pronounce self-expression (audio)
adjective

Examples of self-expression in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The festival emphasizes communal effort, self-reliance and self-expression, according to the organization. — Andrea Margolis, FOXNews.com, 19 Oct. 2026 With the help of literature and creative writing, the nonprofit fosters a space for connection, self-expression and imagining a life beyond incarceration. — Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 14 Oct. 2026 Those songs were basically the soundtrack to the entire world of Drag Race, where music, performance and self-expression have been the hub of the show and its appeal. — Alicia Urrea, Billboard, 13 Oct. 2026 Mercury in your 5th House quincunxes Saturn in your 10th, bringing play, romance, or self-expression up against responsibilities, reputation, or outside expectations. — Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 9 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for self-expression

Word History

First Known Use

1892, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-expression was in 1892

Rhymes for self-expression

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Browse Nearby Words

self-exploration
self-expression
self-expressive
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Self-expression.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-expression. Accessed 23 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

self-expression

noun
self-ex·​pres·​sion
ˌsel-fik-ˈspresh-ən
: the expression of one's own personality
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