Solipsism

Pronunciation

• US IPA: /ˈsÉ‘lɪpsɪzm/

Origin

From Latin solus("alone") + ipse("self") + -ism.

Full definition of solipsism

Noun

1. (philosophy) The theory that the self is all that exists or that can be proven to exist.
2. Self-absorption, an unawareness of the views or needs of others.
• 2012, August 21, Jason Heller, The Darkness: Hot Cakes (Music Review), Self-mythology has always been part of The Darkness’ shtick, but here Hawkins and crew forget to back it up with music catchy enough to transcend the solipsism.
• unknown date Bing WestThe solipsism that too frequently infects high commands has no place on a battlefield.

Related terms

• solipsistic
• solipsistically
• solipsist