self-starter

noun

self-start·​er ˌself-ˈstär-tər 

1

: starter sense 3a

2

: a person who has initiative

Synonyms

• 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

Entrepreneurs can apply this lesson by hiring self-starters—people who thrive on autonomy rather than direction. —Sarah Hernholm, Forbes.com, 4 July 2025

These self-starters are American citizens, immigrants living in the country legally and illegally, and are part of a $504-million industry in L.A., according to estimates from the Economic Roundtable, a nonprofit public policy research organization. —Ruben Vives, Los Angeles Times, 24 June 2025

Creative self-starters, consider entrepreneurship People often discover fulfillment and financial freedom by starting their own small business after leaving the corporate world. —Rebekah Bastian, Forbes.com, 4 June 2025

Lack Of Initiative Startups need self-starters who can tackle challenges without excessive hand-holding. —Abdo Riani, Forbes, 18 Mar. 2025

Showcase results and achievements Remote roles demand self-starters who can deliver results with minimal oversight. —Andrew Fennell, Forbes, 27 Feb. 2025

The Entrepreneurial Spirit Freelancers have to be self-starters and adept at managing their time, clients and resources effectively. —Heidi Davidson, Forbes, 6 Nov. 2024

Beyond skills, consider how to pinpoint self-starters who are hungry to learn and embrace a changing workplace and diverse workforce. —Kathleen Duffy, Forbes, 30 Sep. 2024

Working from home and hybrid working arrangements are still being deliberated, but their popularity among self-starter employees and those who can perform without direct, in-person oversight is undeniable. —Sean Manning, Forbes, 6 Sep. 2024

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