self-assertion

noun

self-as·​ser·​tion ˌself-ə-ˈsər-shən How to pronounce self-assertion (audio)
Synonyms of self-assertionnext
1
: the act of asserting oneself or one's own rights, claims, or opinions
2
: the act of asserting one's superiority over others

Examples of self-assertion 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.
The song’s use of the native language is part of a longer tradition in Taiwan of dissent and self-assertion. — Literary Hub, 15 Oct. 2025 Your challenge has everything to do with balancing your desire for self-assertion with patience. — Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 3 Feb. 2026 Then, as Venus moves into Pisces, the focus shifts from self-assertion to a deeper, more transcendent love. — Colin Bedell, Them, 14 Jan. 2025 What these markets share is a lower tolerance for self-assertion without validation. — Jessica Wong, Forbes.com, 5 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for self-assertion

Word History

First Known Use

1805, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-assertion was in 1805

Rhymes for self-assertion

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Browse Nearby Words

self-asserting
self-assertion
self-assertive
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Self-assertion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-assertion. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

self-assertion

noun
self-as·​ser·​tion
ˌsel-fə-ˈsər-shən
1
: the act of asserting oneself or one's own rights or claims
2
: the act of asserting that one is better than others
self-assertive
-ˈsərt-iv
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on self-assertion

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