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.
Such moves are designed to encourage greater self-reliance among China’s automakers, Loh said. Matthew Chin,evelyn Cheng, CNBC, 5 Mar. 2026 China cut its growth target, closing a decades-long chapter of breakneck expansion, but maintained a focus on high-tech advancement, defense modernization, and economic self-reliance. Prashant Rao, semafor.com, 5 Mar. 2026 Coping mechanisms Participants described self-reliance as essential to coping with incarceration and life after release. Helena Addison, The Conversation, 3 Mar. 2026 The practice is designed to teach children responsibility, confidence, and self-reliance. Katrina Donham, Parents, 25 Feb. 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 8 Mar. 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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