self-evident

adjective

self-ev·​i·​dent ˌself-ˈe-və-dənt How to pronounce self-evident (audio)
-ˌdent
: evident without proof or reasoning
self-evidently adverb

Examples of self-evident in a Sentence

the self-evident truth that all people have the right of self-determination
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.
These assertions are self-evident but fishy. Harmon Siegel, Artforum, 1 Oct. 2025 The turnovers are self-evident. Brooks Kubena, New York Times, 29 Sep. 2025 To a certain type of person, the appeal of these procedures is self-evident: Getting a needle jabbed into your skin hurts. John Semley, The Atlantic, 22 Sep. 2025 Advertisement For anyone who has ever meditated for any length of time, this is self-evident. Paul Greenberg, Time, 20 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for self-evident

Word History

First Known Use

1643, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-evident was in 1643

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Cite this Entry

“Self-evident.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-evident. Accessed 3 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

self-evident

adjective
self-ev·​i·​dent
ˈsel-ˈfev-əd-ənt,
-ə-ˌdent
: having no need of proof
self-evident truths

More from Merriam-Webster on self-evident

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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