noun
Uncommon
selfishness
SEHL-fihsh-nuhs
Selfishness (noun) means the trait of putting one's own interests ahead of other people's. Example: “His selfishness eventually cost him his closest friendships.”
noun
1
The trait of putting one's own interests ahead of other people's.
"His selfishness eventually cost him his closest friendships."
How to use selfishness
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe quality of being selfish.
Easily confused with
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Word forms
- Plural
- selfishnesses
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His _____ eventually cost him his closest friendships.
Antonyms
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Rhymes for selfishness
See all rhymes for selfishness →Frequently asked questions
What does “selfishness” mean?
The word “selfishness” means the trait of putting one's own interests ahead of other people's. In plain terms, the quality of being selfish.
How do you pronounce “selfishness”?
“Selfishness” is pronounced SEHL-fihsh-nuhs (/ˈsɛl.fɪʃ.nəs/ in IPA).
How do you use “selfishness” in a sentence?
Here is “selfishness” used in a sentence: “His selfishness eventually cost him his closest friendships.”
What is the opposite of “selfishness”?
The opposite of “selfishness” — its antonyms — are selflessness and self-abnegation.
What part of speech is “selfishness”?
“Selfishness” is a noun.
Is “selfishness” a common word?
“Selfishness” is an uncommon word in modern English.
