self-actualize

verb

self-ac·tu·al·ize ˌself-ˈak-ch(ə-w)ə-ˌlīz

-sh(ə-w)ə-ˌlīz

self-actualized; self-actualizing; self-actualizes

intransitive verb

: to realize fully one's potential

self-actualization

ˌself-ˌak-ch(ə-w)ə-lə-ˈzā-shən

-sh(ə-w)ə-lə-

noun

Examples of self-actualize in a Sentence

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.

Few people are able to truly self-actualize in this way. — Corey Buhay, Outside, 15 Sep. 2025 Finances are just one part of building a great life and reaching your full potential to self-actualize in this life. — Matthew Kayser, USA Today, 15 Oct. 2025 Will Ruben be the death of Niall, or will his outsized confidence turn out to be exactly what Niall needs to self-actualize? — Daniel Fienberg, HollywoodReporter, 21 Apr. 2026 In contrast, says Collins, functional beverages are for self-actualizing. — Keren Landman, Vox, 12 Sep. 2024 See All Example Sentences for self-actualize

Word History

First Known Use

1874, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of self-actualize was in 1874

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Browse Nearby Words

self-actor

self-actualize

self-addressed

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Cite this Entry

Style

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

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Kids Definition

self-actualize

verb

self-ac·tu·al·ize

ˌsel-ˈfak-ch(ə-w)əl-ˌīz,

-sh(ə-w)əl-

: to realize fully one's potential

self-actualization

-ˌfak-ch(ə-w)ə-lə-ˈzā-shən,

-ˌfaksh-wə-

noun

Medical Definition

self-actualize

intransitive verb

self-ac·tu·al·ize

variants also British self-actualise

ˈself-ˈak-ch(ə-w)ə-ˌlīz

self-actualized also British self-actualised; self-actualizing also British self-actualising

: to realize fully one's potential

self-actualization noun

also British self-actualisation

-ˌak-ch(ə-w)ə-lə-ˈzā-shən

self-actualize

verb

Examples of self-actualize in a Sentence

Word History

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Kids Definition

Medical Definition

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