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.
New Balance says the campaign is intended to celebrate self-expression and individuality while highlighting the 983’s versatility across a variety of looks. — Riley Jones, Footwear News, 1 Sep. 2026 Burning Man, a weeklong event focused on radical self-expression, participation, communal effort and civic responsibility, is expected to draw approximately 70,000 people this year. — Trevor Hughes, USA Today, 30 Aug. 2026 One of Burning Man’s ten governing principles is radical self-expression, and the clothes complied. — Henry Alford, New Yorker, 29 Aug. 2026 Even something as simple as creating an herbal apothecary or making a tiny clay charm can become a meaningful form of self-expression. — Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 27 Aug. 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

See All Rhymes for self-expression

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 4 Sep. 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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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