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
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 notion that the ultra-rich are nomads, unattached to place and ready to vanish abroad if offended, reflects the myth of individualism.
—
Andrew Leahey, Forbes.com, 20 July 2025
Think community, amenities and relative safety — not the go-it-alone individualism often associated with adventuring.
—Ethan Wolin
updated July 16, Sacbee.com, 16 July 2025
The dangers of suppressing individualism for the sake of societal or institutional norms are amplified by the Orwellian nightmare fuel setting in which A Clockwork Orange takes place, wherein the conformer is exploited by corrupt actors at every turn.
—Paul Fitzgerald, Rolling Stone, 23 June 2025
In a world that often emphasizes individualism, their efforts to foster empathy and support within their community are commendable and inspiring.
—News Release, San Diego Union-Tribune, 30 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for individualism
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Andrew Leahey, Forbes.com, 20 July 2025
Think community, amenities and relative safety — not the go-it-alone individualism often associated with adventuring.
—Ethan Wolin
updated July 16, Sacbee.com, 16 July 2025
The dangers of suppressing individualism for the sake of societal or institutional norms are amplified by the Orwellian nightmare fuel setting in which A Clockwork Orange takes place, wherein the conformer is exploited by corrupt actors at every turn.
—Paul Fitzgerald, Rolling Stone, 23 June 2025
In a world that often emphasizes individualism, their efforts to foster empathy and support within their community are commendable and inspiring.
—News Release, San Diego Union-Tribune, 30 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for individualism
Cite this Entry
“Individualism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/individualism. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.
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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