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Definition of "ego" []

  • The self, especially as distinct from the world and other selves. (noun)
  • In psychoanalysis, the division of the psyche that is conscious, most immediately controls thought and behavior, and is most in touch with external reality. (noun)
  • An exaggerated sense of self-importance; conceit. (noun)
  • Appropriate pride in oneself; self-esteem. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

Use "ego" in a sentence
  • "As a concept, self-esteem can be traced to Freud, who used the term ego ideal."
  • "Over the last two and a half years we searched 2,190 news articles mainly business-related that used the word ego in any way."
  • "The word ego comes from Latin, where it means “I, myself.”"