do-it-yourself

American  

[doo-i-cher-self, -it-yer-] / ˈdu ɪ tʃərˈsɛlf, -ɪt yər- /

DIY,

adjective

1. of or designed for construction or use by amateurs without special training.

   a do-it-yourself kit for building a radio.

---

noun

1. the practice or hobby of building or repairing things for oneself, usually in one's own home.

do-it-yourself British  

noun

1. 1. the hobby or process of constructing and repairing things oneself

   2. ( as modifier )

      a do-it-yourself kit

---

Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• do-it-yourselfer
  noun

Etymology

Origin of do-it-yourself

First recorded in 1950–55

Example Sentences

If pro revenue grows faster than do-it-yourself, or “DIY” sales, Lowe’s can increase margins.

From Barron's • May 8, 2026

The head of environmental group Legambiente, Stefano Ciafani, described the 18 deaths as an "unprecedented attack on protected wildlife" and an example of "do-it-yourself justice".

From BBC • Apr. 24, 2026

There’s a lot to discuss about the do-it-yourself route versus working with a financial professional — especially when you’re in your 70s and already retired.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 30, 2026

What Ukraine’s military lacks in expensive munitions, it has also tried to make up for in innovative do-it-yourself defense.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 15, 2026

Finally we found an empty do-it-yourself car wash.

From "The Lightning Thief" by Rick Riordan

Related Words

• handmade