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.
Field researchers thrive on a specific set of skills and attributes: resilience, self-reliance, creative problem-solving, and the ability to focus on the moment to decide what needs to be done. Sarah Boon june 25, Literary Hub, 25 June 2025 American culture, with its emphasis on self-reliance, can make asking for help especially difficult. Julie Beck, The Atlantic, 24 June 2025 Kouame emphasizes self-reliance, insisting that, backed by government investment in cultural endeavors, African companies can stand on their own feet, ensuring sustainable long-term growth. Essie Assibu, Variety, 24 June 2025 For decades, obtaining a driver’s license has been a cherished rite of passage for American teenagers, symbolizing a leap into independence and the freedom of self-reliance through mobility. Selika Josiah Talbott, Forbes.com, 23 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

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Cite this Entry

“Self-reliance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-reliance. Accessed 1 Jul. 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
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