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.
His intention wasn’t to stoke fear but to promote self-reliance. Paige Williams, New Yorker, 12 Jan. 2026 This move would signal self-reliance and attract investors drawn to the league’s surging popularity. Nafees Alam, Boston Herald, 9 Jan. 2026 In its place came self-reliance, a different kind of mythology. Hazlitt, 7 Jan. 2026 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 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 13 Jan. 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

More from Merriam-Webster on self-reliance

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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