Dictionary entry

Individualism

Webster's Dictionary 1913

In′di‐vid″u‐al‐ism (?), n. [Cf. F. individualisme.]

1. The quality of being individual; individuality; personality.

2. An excessive or exclusive regard to one's personal interest; self-interest; selfishness.

The selfishness of the small proprietor has been described by the best writers as individualism. Ed. Rev.