Self Meaning and Definition
Self
Pronunciation
/sɛlf/
Part of Speech
Pronoun, Noun
Definition
The totality of one’s thoughts, feelings, and experiences considered as an individual entity distinct from others or from the rest of the universe; one’s own individuality or identity.
Examples
- The self is often explored through various means of self-reflection.
- A sense of self can be cultivated through journaling and meditation.
Synonyms
- I
- Me
- Individual
Antonyms
- Other
- Global
Etymology
The word “self” is derived from Old English “sylf”, which is a variant of “sealf”, meaning “same” or “identical”. This root is also seen in modern English words such as “sameness” and “same-sex”.
Usage Notes
In formal writing, the notion of self is often referred to through the use of explicit pronouns, such as “the self” or “one’s self”. In informal contexts, colloquial expressions like “myself” or “herself” are commonly used.
Cultural References
In popular culture, the concept of self is explored through various forms of media, such as literature, film, and music. Notable examples include the existentialist philosophy of Jean-Paul Sartre and the psychologist Carl Jung’s theories on the collective unconscious.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- Everyone has their own self-interest.
- To know oneself is to know one’s self.
Related Words or Phrases
- Ego
- Identity
- Consciousness
Collocations
- Self-aware
- Self-confidence
- Self-identification
Frequency of Use
The term “self” is a fundamental concept in human culture and language, making it a common and frequent word in everyday conversation.
Common Misspellings
- Celf
- Selef