self-starter

noun

self-start·​er ˌself-ˈstär-tər 

1

: starter sense 3a

2

: a person who has initiative

Synonyms of self-starter

• powerhouse

Examples of self-starter in a Sentence

hired a self-starter who instantly saw what needed to be done, and did it

Recent Examples on the Web

Creative people who are self-starters are going to be fine. — Ethan Shanfeld, Variety, 14 Nov. 2025

The spectacle gave rise to self-starters like Ai who sought to cash in on the growing hype. — John Liu, CNN Money, 30 June 2026

Problem solvers and self-starters should consider brands that are receptive to owner input. — Angelo Chavez, Forbes.com, 28 May 2026

Builders epitomize attributes like risk taking, a sense of agency and a self-starter attitude, says Ritterbush. — Ashton Jackson, CNBC, 20 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1884, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for self-starter

• arter
• barter
• charter
• darter
• garter
• martyr
• smarter
• starter
• tartar

Kids Definition

self-starter

noun

self-start·​er

ˈself-ˈstärt-ər

: a person who is ambitious