self-absorption

noun

self-ab·​sorp·​tion ˌself-əb-ˈsȯrp-shən How to pronounce self-absorption (audio)
-ˈzȯrp-
Synonyms of self-absorptionnext
: preoccupation with oneself

Synonyms of self-absorption

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Examples of self-absorption in a Sentence

the novel's major characters all suffer from self-absorption, and they are every bit as insufferable as such people are in real life
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The depth of her ambition was hard to reach, as was her self-absorption. — Sara Wheeler, Big Think, 17 Apr. 2026 For centuries, the story functioned as a moral warning against vanity and self-absorption. — Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic, Forbes.com, 25 Jan. 2026 Frost’s well is a modern version of Narcissus’ pool, and his poem is a meditation on self-absorption and its limits. — A.o. Scott, New York Times, 27 Aug. 2025 Beware the tendency to slip into self-absorption as a Dragon, however. — Kyle Lucia Wu, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for self-absorption

Word History

First Known Use

1803, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-absorption was in 1803

Rhymes for self-absorption

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Browse Nearby Words

self-absorbed
self-absorption
self-abuse
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Cite this Entry

“Self-absorption.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-absorption. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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