self-reliance

noun

self-re·​li·​ance ˌself-ri-ˈlī-ənts 

: reliance on one's own efforts and abilities

Synonyms of self-reliance

• independence
• autonomy
• self-sufficiency

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

This feature turns a power station into a self-reliance tool, especially valuable for families traveling with kids, older drivers or anyone venturing beyond city limits. —Ascend Agency, New York Daily News, 5 Jan. 2026

Chinese chipmakers have rushed to the IPO market, raising funds that are key to the nation’s goal of technological self-reliance and winning the global race on artificial intelligence. —Bloomberg, Fortune, 31 Dec. 2025

Foreign capital is welcome, but on terms set to advance self-reliance, not dilute it. —Dewardric L. McNeal, CNBC, 31 Dec. 2025

The movement emphasized limited government, self-reliance, liberty, morals and free markets and sought to assert America’s influence throughout the world, promoting democracy and opposing communism. —Matt Fleming, Oc Register, 21 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1668, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for self-reliance

• geoscience
• neuroscience
• noncompliance
• pseudoscience
• appliance
• compliance
• defiance
• reliance
• science

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