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

For those who prefer nonfiction, history is the top choice (the clear favorite among men), while women are more divided between books about religions, philosophy, or spirituality and books about self-help and wellness. —Fred Backus, CBS News, 18 June 2026

One is the self-help book Your Turn, whose arrival will result in some unpleasant consequences before the end of the episode. —Keith Phipps, Vulture, 15 June 2026

Classics, kids books, mysteries, graphic novels, art, self-help, memoirs, cookbooks and gardening of course! —Marc Weingarten, Los Angeles Times, 13 June 2026

Created by The Weeknd and Euphoria showrunner Sam Levinson, The Idol followed a self-help guru and secret cult leader (The Weeknd) helping Depp's character, pop star Jocelyn, create an edgier image after being scrutinized by the media. —Marina Watts, Entertainment Weekly, 9 June 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.