self-reliance

noun

self-re·​li·​ance ˌself-ri-ˈlī-ənts How to pronounce self-reliance (audio)
Synonyms of self-reliancenext
: 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.
When the family moved from Ohio after his freshman year, Klugo’s self-reliance helped elevate the tennis team. Liana Handler follow, Los Angeles Times, 11 June 2026 As America celebrates 250 years, the West's vast landscape sets a stunning backdrop for the nation's history of expansion, self-reliance and opportunity. Alia Beard Rau, USA Today, 10 June 2026 However, kids need to be challenged in order to develop the skills, tenacity, grit, and self-reliance needed to (eventually) function in the world on their own. Alanna Gallo, Parents, 2 June 2026 The aim is to sharpen judgment, not replace it, fostering self-reliance. Cheryl Robinson, Forbes.com, 26 May 2026 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Self-reliance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-reliance. Accessed 15 Jun. 2026.

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

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