self-publish

verb

self-pub·​lish ˌself-ˈpə-blish 

self-published; self-publishing; self-publishes

transitive verb

: to publish (a book) using the author's own resources

Examples of self-publish in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Originally self-published in December 2024, the domestic thriller gained a following, building a readership before sparking a highly competitive auction and ultimately selling to Atria Books in a major seven-figure deal in North America. — Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 19 Aug. 2026

The author who became one of the world's most famous (and secretive) philanthropists, is self-publishing a new book. — Emma Hinchliffe, Fortune, 14 Aug. 2026

Florence Scovel Shinn self-published The Game of Life and How to Play It in 1925, after every publisher turned it down. — Jodie Cook, Forbes.com, 9 Aug. 2026

The books themselves, which became famous through Dinniman’s self-publishing efforts before Penguin Random House picked up the physical publishing rights, are still considered sensations. — Nick Romano, Entertainment Weekly, 25 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1943, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for self-publish

• republish
• publish