[in.di.vid.u.al.ism] n (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