self-sufficiency

noun

self-suf·​fi·​cien·​cy ˌself-sə-ˈfi-shən(t)-sē How to pronounce self-sufficiency (audio)
: the quality or state of being self-sufficient

Examples of self-sufficiency in a Sentence

self-sufficiency is a goal that all teenagers should work towards
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.
With Mercury retrograde in your sign starting on the 15th, old fears around your self-sufficiency might be resurfacing. Meghan Rose, Glamour, 1 July 2025 Why This Is Particularly Important For Women Leaders A 1991 study by psychologist Judith Jordan and her colleagues explored the idea that women’s psychological development isn’t primarily driven by independence and self-sufficiency (as it is considered to be for men), but by connection. Nicole Lipkin, Forbes.com, 30 June 2025 Today, this 42-year-old is 54 pounds lighter, with a diet of more produce and natural foods from the environment, settled into a move back to her hometown and embarked on a new business focused on recovery through self-sufficiency. Sarah Kyrcz, Hartford Courant, 30 June 2025 The authors observe increases to educational attainment and economic self-sufficiency, meaning that children who receive SNAP benefits are less likely to need support from social programs later in life. Emily Eisner, New York Daily News, 29 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for self-sufficiency

Word History

First Known Use

1598, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-sufficiency was in 1598

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Cite this Entry

“Self-sufficiency.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-sufficiency. Accessed 11 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

self-sufficiency

noun
self-suf·​fi·​cien·​cy
ˌself-sə-ˈfish-ən-sē
: the quality or state of being self-sufficient
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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