Ego

Definition

Ego refers to a person's sense of self-esteem or self-importance. In psychology, it also describes the part of the mind that mediates between the conscious and the unconscious and is responsible for reality testing and a sense of personal identity.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈiːɡoʊ/
• Respelling: EE-goh

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈiːɡəʊ/
• Respelling: EE-goh

The pronunciation of "ego" is similar in both American and British English, with only minor differences in the ending vowel sound.

Etymology

The word "ego" comes from the Latin word "ego," meaning "I." It was introduced into modern usage through the field of psychology, particularly by Sigmund Freud, who used it as a technical term to describe the part of the human psyche that deals with reality and mediates between the id and the superego.

Derivatives

• Egotism (noun)
• Egoistic (adjective)
• Egoism (noun)
• Egoist (noun)
• Super-ego (noun)

Synonyms

• Self-esteem
• Self-worth
• Self-importance

Antonyms

• Humility
• Modesty
• Selflessness

Usage

The term "ego" is commonly used in everyday language to refer to a person’s sense of self-worth or their confidence in themselves. In psychological contexts, especially in Freudian psychoanalysis, the ego plays a key role in personality theory as the part of the mind that deals with reality and mediates between primitive desires (id) and moral or social standards (superego).

Related Terms

• Id: The part of the psyche that contains instinctual drives and desires, as described by Freud.
• Superego: The part of the psyche that reflects social standards and moral judgments.
• Self: Refers to a person's essential being, especially as distinct from the external world and other individuals.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A person's sense of self-esteem or self-importance: Refers to how much value or confidence a person places on themselves.
  • Example: "His ego was hurt when his idea was rejected."
• In psychoanalysis, the part of the mind that mediates between the conscious and the unconscious: Refers to the part of the psyche that balances instinctual desires (id) with social standards (superego).
  • Example: "Freud's theory suggests the ego plays a central role in decision-making."