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.
The practice is designed to teach children responsibility, confidence, and self-reliance. Katrina Donham, Parents, 25 Feb. 2026 Others describe chances for self-reliance or self-reflection. Rainesford Stauffer, Time, 25 Feb. 2026 While some post-emancipation Black leaders backed social integration, author, orator and educator Washington, the first leader of the Tuskegee Institute, urged self-reliance. Michael Barnes, Austin American Statesman, 23 Feb. 2026 Using her magic broom, Kiki opens a flying courier service and begins to experience both the satisfaction and the difficulties of independence and self-reliance. Danny Horn, Entertainment Weekly, 22 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 27 Feb. 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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