Langimage
English

selfishness

|self/ish/ness|

B2

/ˈsɛlfɪʃnəs/

(selfish)

self-centered concern

Base FormComparativeSuperlativeNoun
selfishmore selfishmost selfishselfishness
Etymology
Etymology Information

'selfishness' originates from the word 'selfish,' which is derived from 'self,' meaning 'one's own person.'

Historical Evolution

'selfish' evolved from the Middle English word 'selfish,' which meant 'self-centered,' and eventually became the modern English word 'selfishness.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'concerned with one's own interests,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the quality or state of being selfish; having or showing concern only for oneself and not for the needs or feelings of others.

His selfishness was evident when he refused to share his resources.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40