self-contained

adjective

self-con·​tained ˌself-kən-ˈtānd How to pronounce self-contained (audio)
1
a
: complete in itself : independent
a self-contained machine
a self-contained program of study
b
: built-in
a lectern with a self-contained light fixture
2
a
: showing self-control
b
: formal and reserved in manner
self-containedly adverb
self-containedness noun
self-containment noun

Examples of self-contained in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Newman and Macdonald shared whether or not their show’s storylines will pick up after the events of the crossover or if the special event was self-contained. Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 29 Jan. 2025 Rosenkrantz is played in the two-hander by Rebecca Hall with warmth and humor and a physical ease that makes Linda much more centered and self-contained than Whishaw’s chain-smoking, often fidgeting Peter. David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter, 27 Jan. 2025 He is self-contained, bookish, innocent despite his cynicism — and as such stories often go, disappointment and bitterness probably await. Zachary Lazar, New York Times, 9 Jan. 2025 To make the power bank self-contained, it is supplied with a pair of cables for charging multiple devices. Mark Sparrow, Forbes, 4 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for self-contained 

Word History

First Known Use

1605, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-contained was in 1605

Dictionary Entries Near self-contained

Cite this Entry

“Self-contained.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-contained. Accessed 12 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

self-contained

adjective
self-con·​tained
ˌself-kən-ˈtānd
1
: enough or complete in itself
2
a
: showing self-control
b
: keeping one's thoughts and feelings to oneself
self-containment
-ˈtān-mənt
noun

More from Merriam-Webster on self-contained

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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