self-esteem — confidence in one's own worth or abilities; self-respect
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: confidence in one's own worth or abilities; self-respect
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˌself ɪˈstiːm/
Example Sentences
- After failing the driving test five times, his self-esteem was lower than a limbo bar.
- She joined the debate club to improve her self-esteem.
- His self-esteem skyrocketed when he finally learned to cook ramen without burning it.
self-esteem
NOUN[/ˌself ɪˈstiːm/]
confidence in one's own worth or abilities; self-respect
Her self-esteem grew after she achieved her goal.
Positive thoughts helped build her self-esteem. (🙋 Self + ❤️ Value → Self-esteem)
Her self-esteem inspired a dream that made her eyes gleam with confidence.
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
Self-esteem emerged as a compound term in the 17th century, combining 'self' (one's own person) and 'esteem' (to regard with respect or value). It gained currency as a psychological term to describe an individual's subjective evaluation of their own worth and capabilities.
Breakdown
self (one's own person) + esteem (from Latin aestimare, meaning to value or regard with respect).
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“After failing the driving test five times, his self-esteem was lower than a limbo bar.”
“She joined the debate club to improve her self-esteem.”
“His self-esteem skyrocketed when he finally learned to cook ramen without burning it.”
“Teachers play a vital role in developing students' self-esteem.”
📚Related Words
Want to master 27,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.