self-care

noun

ˌself-ˈker 

: care for oneself

stroke victims capable of daily self-care

the necessity of busy working parents to take time for self-care

specifically : health care provided by oneself often without the consultation of a medical professional

Over-the-counter (OTC) drugs are a common route for self-care, and consumers are eagerly using them …

—Alison Stein Wellner

—sometimes used before another noun

At-home screening is one side of the burgeoning self-care movement …

—Stephen Rae

Examples of self-care in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

It’s brought a little joy and self-care back to a part of my routine that usually happens in a hurry. —Grace McCarty, Glamour, 6 Feb. 2026

There’s nothing better than an indulgent self-care night to celebrate Valentine’s Day. —Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 Feb. 2026

Focuses on holistic wellness, providing you with the tools to nourish your mind, body and spirit through six essential pillars of self-care. —Wcco Staff, CBS News, 5 Feb. 2026

Those who do not celebrate still plan to spend on self-care or outings with friends and family. —Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 5 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1841, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for self-care

• abwehr
• affair
• affaire
• airfare
• altair
• armchair
• aware
• beware
• bugbear
• carfare
• childcare
• compare

Medical Definition

self-care

noun

-ˈke(ə)r 

: care for oneself : self-treatment