n.
Pronunciation: ˌ in-d ə - ' vij-w ə - ˌ li-z ə m, - ' vi-j ə -w ə -, - ' vi-j ə - ˌ li-
Function: noun
Date: 1827
1 a (1) : a doctrine that the interests of the individual are or ought to be ethically paramount also : conduct guided by such a doctrine (2) : the conception that all values, rights, and duties originate in individuals b : a theory maintaining the political and economic independence of the individual and stressing individual initiative, action, and interests also : conduct or practice guided by such a theory
2 a : INDIVIDUALITY b : an individual peculiarity : IDIOSYNCRASY