self-corrective

adjective

self-cor·​rec·​tive ˌself-kə-ˈrek-tiv How to pronounce self-corrective (audio)

Examples of self-corrective 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.
Science has its vaunted self-corrective impulse, but even so, few working scientists—and fewer still of those who gain significant renown—will ever really cop to their mistakes. Daniel Engber, The Atlantic, 28 Mar. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1925, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-corrective was circa 1925

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Self-corrective.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-corrective. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster