In psychoanalytic theory, the rational, reality-oriented component of personality that mediates between the impulsive demands of the id and the moral constraints of the superego. The ego operates on the reality principle, seeking to satisfy desires in socially acceptable and realistic ways while maintaining psychological equilibrium.
Example: When hungry, the ego finds appropriate food and eating location rather than grabbing food from others (id impulse) or refusing to eat due to guilt (superego restriction).