individualism
noun
in·di·vid·u·al·ism
ˌin-də-ˈvi-jə-wə-ˌli-zəm 
-ˈvij-wə-,
-ˈvi-jə-ˌli-
1
a(1)
: a doctrine that the interests of the individual are or ought to be ethically paramount
also
: conduct guided by such a doctrine
(2)
: the conception that all values, rights, and duties originate in individuals
b
: a theory maintaining the political and economic independence of the individual and stressing individual initiative, action, and interests
also
: conduct or practice guided by such a theory
2
a
b
: an individual peculiarity : idiosyncrasy
Synonyms
Examples of individualism in a Sentence
a society that believes strongly in individualism
He was respected for his self-reliance and individualism.
Recent Examples on the Web
The combination of not trusting medical professionals, the rugged individualism that especially pervades rural men, and heightened stigma is a fact of life for many people living in less-populated and less-resourced areas.
—
Natalie Eilbert, Journal Sentinel, 2 Aug. 2024
Inside the roaring fire of individualism, the still small voice of guilt.
—Marco Roth, Washington Post, 30 July 2024
The subtext of what Vance is saying is that empathy only extends as far as one's bloodline, which is a particularly cold version of the narcissistic individualism endemic in conservative politics.
—Elizabeth Logan, Glamour, 23 July 2024
Above them, the Commissar begins to hoarsely lecture on the danger of individualism.
—Terry Nguyen, Vulture, 26 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for individualism 
Natalie Eilbert, Journal Sentinel, 2 Aug. 2024
Inside the roaring fire of individualism, the still small voice of guilt.
—Marco Roth, Washington Post, 30 July 2024
The subtext of what Vance is saying is that empathy only extends as far as one's bloodline, which is a particularly cold version of the narcissistic individualism endemic in conservative politics.
—Elizabeth Logan, Glamour, 23 July 2024
Above them, the Commissar begins to hoarsely lecture on the danger of individualism.
—Terry Nguyen, Vulture, 26 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for individualism
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'individualism.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near individualism
Cite this Entry
“Individualism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/individualism. Accessed 20 Aug. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
individualism
noun
in·di·vid·u·al·ism
ˌin-də-ˈvij(ə-)wə-ˌliz-əm
-ˈvij-ə-ˌliz-
1
: a belief that the interests of the individual are of the greatest importance
2
: a belief that the individual has political or economic rights with which the state must not interfere
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