self-sufficient

adjective

self-suf·​fi·​cient ˌself-sə-ˈfi-shənt 

1

: able to maintain oneself or itself without outside aid : capable of providing for one's own needs

a self-sufficient farm

2

: having an extreme confidence in one's own ability or worth : haughty, overbearing

Synonyms of self-sufficient

• independent

Examples of self-sufficient in a Sentence

the college student worked nights so that he would be self-sufficient

Recent Examples on the Web

View gallery - 4 images The Chillhouse is a compact tiny house created with self-sufficient living in mind. —New Atlas, 16 Feb. 2026

Plans are emerging in Florida, for example, to build self-sufficient energy centers using turbines that burn greenhouse gas-emitting natural gas. —Mary Ellen Klas, Twin Cities, 15 Feb. 2026

Alongside its recycled design ethos, the hotel runs on solar power, uses its own water wells, composts, and aims to be as self-sufficient as possible. —Stephanie Rafanelli, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 Feb. 2026

Losing her independence doesn’t set well with Miss Daisy, a former schoolteacher who takes pride in being self-sufficient. —Oline Cogdill, Sun Sentinel, 9 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1596, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for self-sufficient

• beneficent
• coefficient
• inefficient
• insufficient
• deficient
• efficient
• omniscient
• proficient
• sufficient

Kids Definition

self-sufficient

adjective

self-suf·​fi·​cient

ˌself-sə-ˈfish-ənt

: able to take care of oneself without outside help : independent