VocabDictionary

self-governing

/ˌsɛlfˈɡʌv.ər.nɪŋ/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.adjective

Exercising control over one's own affairs; autonomous or independent in political or organizational matters.

Example Sentences:
  • The territory became a self-governing region after the new constitution was ratified.
  • The school operates as a self-governing body, with students and faculty making all major policy decisions.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “self-governing”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the prefix 'self-' (Old English 'self', meaning 'one's own person') and the verb 'govern' (from Old French 'governer', via Latin 'gubernare', meaning 'to steer or pilot a ship'). The compound emerged in the 17th century to describe political entities that exercise autonomy.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a 'self' that is the 'governor' of its own state; it doesn't need an outside boss.

Frequently Asked Questions About “self-governing

1. What is the meaning of “self-governing” in English?

In English, self-governing (adjective) is defined as: “Exercising control over one's own affairs; autonomous or independent in political or organizational matters.”.

2. How do you use “self-governing” in a sentence?

The territory became a self-governing region after the new constitution was ratified.

3. What are English synonyms of “self-governing”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “self-governing”?

Derived from the prefix 'self-' (Old English 'self', meaning 'one's own person') and the verb 'govern' (from Old French 'governer', via Latin 'gubernare', meaning 'to steer or pilot a ship'). The compound emerged in the 17th century to describe political entities that exercise autonomy.