do-it-yourself

American  

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

DIY,

adjective

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

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

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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

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Other Word Forms

• do-it-yourselfer
  noun

Etymology

Origin of do-it-yourself

First recorded in 1950–55

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

do-it-yourself

The conference also offers an up-close view of a generational shift in financial markets: The do-it-yourself investor is playing a bigger role on Wall Street than ever before.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 10, 2026

The San Fernando Valley, especially in Burbank, is a region now known for extravagant, do-it-yourself Halloween displays.

From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 1, 2026

She’s a gift-giver, has a strong interest in kids’ do-it-yourself crafts and items that relate to Brooklyn and New York City.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 29, 2026

Immediate annuities could be better described as do-it-yourself pensions.

From MarketWatch ● Aug. 31, 2026

“That stands for do-it-yourself, and that includes learning how to play an instrument.”

From "The First Rule of Punk" by Celia C. Pérez

Related Words

• handmade