VocabDictionary

self reliant

/ˌself.rɪˈlaɪ.ənt/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.adjective

Relying on one's own powers and resources rather than those of others; independent and self-sufficient.

Example Sentences:
  • Living off the grid forced the family to become entirely self-reliant for their food and energy.
  • The program aims to help students become more self-reliant learners by teaching them effective research skills.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

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

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

The term is a compound formed from the reflexive pronoun 'self' (Old English 'self') and 'reliant' (from the verb 'rely,' derived from the Old French 'relier,' meaning to bind or attach). It gained significant cultural prominence in the 19th century, most notably through Ralph Waldo Emerson's 1841 essay 'Self-Reliance,' which championed the philosophy of individual autonomy and non-conformity.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a person who 'relies' only on their own 'self' to get things done.

Frequently Asked Questions About “self reliant

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

In English, self reliant (adjective) is defined as: “Relying on one's own powers and resources rather than those of others; independent and self-sufficient.”.

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

Living off the grid forced the family to become entirely self-reliant for their food and energy.

3. What are English synonyms of “self reliant”?

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

The term is a compound formed from the reflexive pronoun 'self' (Old English 'self') and 'reliant' (from the verb 'rely,' derived from the Old French 'relier,' meaning to bind or attach). It gained significant cultural prominence in the 19th century, most notably through Ralph Waldo Emerson's 1841 essay 'Self-Reliance,' which championed the philosophy of individual autonomy and non-conformity.