self-winding

adjective

self-wind·​ing ˌself-ˈwīn-diŋ How to pronounce self-winding (audio)
: not needing to be wound by hand
a self-winding watch

Examples of self-winding in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Crafted in Switzerland and powered by a self-winding Swiss Automatic movement, these watches — from $9,000 to $28,600 — have become known for their distinct dials, which incorporate the maison’s signature pyramid motif. Charlie Boyd, CNN Money, 17 Apr. 2026 Launched in 1945 to commemorate Rolex’s 40th anniversary, the Datejust was the first self-winding wristwatch with a date window that automatically changed over at midnight. Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 3 Mar. 2026 This style features self-winding movements produced by the Swiss Manufacture Kenissi, co-owned by Chanel. Kristen Bateman, Vogue, 21 Nov. 2025 The handle twists at a 90-degree angle to become a high-speed hair dryer, but locked into its upright position, the device converts into a self-winding curling iron, a frizz-smoothing paddle brush, and a volume-building oval brush. Sophia Panych, Allure, 16 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for self-winding

Word History

First Known Use

1800, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-winding was in 1800

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Cite this Entry

“Self-winding.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-winding. Accessed 27 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

self-winding

adjective
self-wind·​ing
ˈself-ˈwīn-diŋ
: not needing to be wound by hand
a self-winding watch
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