self-help

noun

ˈself-ˈhelp 

Southern also ˈhep

: the action or process of bettering oneself or overcoming one's problems without the aid of others

especially : the coping with one's personal or emotional problems without professional help

self-help adjective

Examples of self-help in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Tovey stars as Anthony Selvon, a polarizing self-help influencer with a dangerous message for young men nearing adulthood – embrace hypermasculinity and hate on women. — Matthew Carey, Deadline, 25 Aug. 2026

The Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana—National Rural Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM), launched in 2010, aims to foster self-employment and help the rural poor to organize themselves into self-help groups. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 18 Aug. 2026

Meanwhile, those hawking self-help books and products and seminars keep making money. — Evelyn Skye, PEOPLE, 18 Aug. 2026

Parents magazine notes that practicing these self-help skills at home builds confidence, and NAEYC offers similar guidance for kindergarten families. — Ashley Lynch, Charlotte Observer, 10 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1628, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for self-help

• help
• kelp
• skelp
• whelp
• yelp

Kids Definition

self-help

noun

ˈself-ˈhelp

: the act of bettering oneself or overcoming one's problems without aid of others

Legal Definition

self-help

noun

ˈself-ˈhelp

: the act of redressing or preventing a wrong by one's own actions rather than through legal proceedings

Note: The Uniform Commercial Code permits creditors to repossess collateral by self-help if it can be done without a breach of the peace.