as in independent
able to take care of oneself or itself without outside help
a surprisingly calm and self-reliant child
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Recent Examples of self-reliant
The swaggering Astrid was always the film’s most self-reliant character, and in Parker’s hands, the romance between her and Hiccup takes on Clark Kent-Lois Lane vibes, especially when the two hit the skies.
—
Peter Debruge, Variety, 9 June 2025
But when Jencks and Silver were writing, many Americans had similar hopes for self-reliant DIY.
—Glenn Adamson, Artforum, 1 June 2025
Beijing's Choice China's goal is to be not only self-reliant, but also relied upon by the world.
—John Feng, MSNBC Newsweek, 23 May 2025
Saturn is a dominant planet that likes to take charge and Aries is the zodiac sign that is self-reliant.
—Lisa Stardust, Refinery29, 21 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for self-reliant
Peter Debruge, Variety, 9 June 2025
But when Jencks and Silver were writing, many Americans had similar hopes for self-reliant DIY.
—Glenn Adamson, Artforum, 1 June 2025
Beijing's Choice China's goal is to be not only self-reliant, but also relied upon by the world.
—John Feng, MSNBC Newsweek, 23 May 2025
Saturn is a dominant planet that likes to take charge and Aries is the zodiac sign that is self-reliant.
—Lisa Stardust, Refinery29, 21 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for self-reliant
Recent Examples of Synonyms for self-reliant
independent
Adjective
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According to the latest McKinsey American Opportunity Survey, 36% of the U.S. labor force identifies as independent workers today, up from 27% in 2016.—
Roomy Khan,
Forbes.com,
20 June 2025
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Democratic leaders have come under criticism from within, some for pushing the party too far left, and others for appearing too conciliatory toward Trump, and a number who have felt disillusioned with its agenda have left the party entirely to either identify as independent or as a Republican.—
Mandy Taheri,
MSNBC Newsweek,
20 June 2025
Cite this Entry
“Self-reliant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/self-reliant. Accessed 3 Jul. 2025.
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