self-sufficiency

noun

self-suf·​fi·​cien·​cy ˌself-sə-ˈfi-shən(t)-sē 

: the quality or state of being self-sufficient

Synonyms of self-sufficiency

• independence
• autonomy
• self-reliance

Examples of self-sufficiency in a Sentence

self-sufficiency is a goal that all teenagers should work towards

Recent Examples on the Web

Life, people, and spirit teach us to replace self-interest and self-sufficiency with interdependency, service, and self-sacrifice. — Chris John Amorosino, Hartford Courant, 20 July 2026

This would combine additional transitional housing with best practices in drug & mental health treatment coupled with programs to foster self-sufficiency and gainful employment. — Scott Maxwell, The Orlando Sentinel, 10 July 2026

The self-sufficiency push comes as Nvidia’s market share in China has eroded owing to US export controls, with Huawei set to capture roughly 50% this year. — Tasneem Nashrulla, semafor.com, 7 July 2026

Building proprietary silicon takes years of engineering iteration before a company reaches anything close to self-sufficiency, and the clearest proof is the company furthest along. — Jon Markman, Forbes.com, 25 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1598, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for self-sufficiency

• inefficiency
• insufficiency
• deficiency
• efficiency
• proficiency
• sufficiency
• immunodeficiency

Kids Definition

self-sufficiency

noun

self-suf·​fi·​cien·​cy

ˌself-sə-ˈfish-ən-sē

: the quality or state of being self-sufficient