self-reliance

noun

self-re·​li·​ance ˌself-ri-ˈlī-ənts How to pronounce self-reliance (audio)
: reliance on one's own efforts and abilities

Examples of self-reliance in a Sentence

some people don't achieve self-reliance until they're over 30 years old
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.
Now that period has given way to one of nationalism and self-reliance, which means promoting China’s own companies, products, technologies—and universities. Michael Schuman, The Atlantic, 14 June 2025 Despite the rhetoric on economic self-reliance, both the U.S. and China have much to lose from a prolonged trade war. Earl Carr, Forbes.com, 13 June 2025 Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said Friday on the Telegram social network that his government would act preemptively to establish self-reliance in response to exhortations by Thai nationalists to cut off electricity and internet connectivity to Cambodia. Sopheng Cheang, Los Angeles Times, 13 June 2025 Meanwhile, with Saturn — the planet of structure, discipline, boundaries and karma — transiting the early degrees of Aries, we are collectively challenged to take responsibility for our actions, which simultaneously teaches us patience and self-reliance. Valerie Mesa, People.com, 9 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for self-reliance

Word History

First Known Use

1668, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-reliance was in 1668

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Self-reliance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-reliance. Accessed 19 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

self-reliance

noun
self-re·​li·​ance
ˌsel-fri-ˈlī-ənts
: trust in one's own efforts and abilities
self-reliant
-ənt
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on self-reliance

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

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