self-realization
UK[ˌself ˌriːəlaɪˈzeɪʃn]US[ˌself ˌriːələˈzeɪʃn]
n
the process of fully developing and using your abilities and understanding your true nature and potential.
n
the fulfillment of one's own potential or desires.
Morpheme Breakdown
self
real
ization
self
own
real
actual
ization
process of making
Etymology
the compound 'self-realization' is a modern philosophical and psychological term built from ancient components. 'self' originates from proto-germanic selbaz, carrying the core sense of one's own person. 'real' descends from latin 'realis', meaning 'relating to things', itself from 'res' (thing, matter). the suffix '-ization' comes from latin '-izare' via greek '-izein', a verb-forming suffix that, when combined with '-ation', denotes the process of causing something to be. thus, the literal morphemic construction 'the process of making (oneself) actual' elegantly evolved into the abstract concept of achieving one's full, authentic potential.
Analysis
Structure: self (own) + real (actual) + ization (process of making)
self (old english, reflexive pronoun meaning 'own'); real (latin via old french, meaning 'actual, true'); ization (latin via french, noun-forming suffix meaning 'the process of making').
Examples
many believe that meditation is a path to self-realization.
her journey of self-realization led her to a more fulfilling career.
the artist's work reflects his ongoing process of self-realization.