self-conscious
UK: ˌself ˈkɒn.ʃəs | US: ˌself ˈkɑːn.ʃəs
adj. excessively aware of one's appearance, actions, or thoughts, often leading to discomfort
adj. (philosophy) possessing self-awareness or reflective consciousness
self-conscious = self<oneself> + conscious<aware>
- self: From Old English self, meaning "one's own person."
- conscious: From Latin conscius (< con- "with" + scire "to know"), meaning "aware, knowing."
Etymology Origin:
The term self-conscious emerged in the 17th century, combining self (emphasizing individuality) with conscious (denoting awareness). Initially neutral, it later acquired a psychological nuance, reflecting heightened or uneasy self-awareness. The duality—philosophical (neutral self-reflection) and colloquial (awkwardness)—shows how language mirrors human introspection.
She felt self-conscious about her accent in the meeting.
Teenagers are often self-conscious about their changing bodies.
His self-conscious laughter revealed his nervousness.
The artist’s self-conscious style critiques societal norms.
Meditation helps reduce self-conscious overthinking.