ego

Latin

self, I

Variants

ego

About This Root

Latin pronoun meaning "I" (the self). Entered English through philosophy and psychology, especially Freud's model of the psyche. Produces ego (the self), egocentric (self-centered), egoism (philosophy of self-interest), and egotist (one excessively focused on self). A small root, but central to how we talk about self-awareness and selfishness.

Associated Words

ego

One's sense of self-importance; the conscious self

IELTSB2

egocentric

Thinking only of oneself; self-centered

GREC2

egoism

Excessive self-interest; the belief that morality is based on self-interest

TOEFLGREB2

egotist

A conceited, self-centered person who talks excessively about themselves

GREC2