Self-Esteem: Definition, Examples & Usage Guide

Meaning 1：sense of self-worth (self-esteem)

self-esteem 🔊

/ˌself ɪˈstiːm/

It's the good feeling you have about yourself, believing you are valuable and capable.

Self-esteem illustrated by a person smiling confidently at their reflection in a mirror, symbolizing self-acceptance and inner value.

sense of self-worth 🔊

➕

/sɛns əv ˌself ˈwɜːθ/

A positive feeling and belief in one's own value and capabilities.

📁 Category：Physical & Mental Health 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From 'self' (Old English for oneself) + 'esteem' (Latin 'aestimare', to value).

💡 Mnemonic

Self-esteem: esteem yourself – think highly of your own self.

📖 Example

Completing the difficult project on her own gave Sarah a huge boost in self-esteem. 🔊 Sarah's sense of self-worth greatly increased after she finished the challenging project independently.

🔗 Collocations

boost self-esteem – to increase one's self-esteem

low self-esteem – having little confidence in oneself

self-esteem issues – problems related to one's self-worth

🔄 Synonyms

self-worth (n.) – the value one places on oneself

self-respect (n.) – pride and confidence in oneself

confidence (n.) – belief in one's abilities

🚫 Antonyms

self-doubt (n.) – lack of confidence in oneself

insecurity (n.) – feeling uncertain about oneself

self-deprecation (n.) – modesty about or criticism of oneself

📖 Cultural Story

The term emerged in psychology during the 20th century, popularized by thinkers like William James. It blends 'self' with 'esteem', reflecting the assessment of one's own worth.