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

“They are betting on making higher profit margins on the accessories and do-it-yourself angle.”

From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 24, 2026

However, like in other countries worldwide, do-it-yourself publication including zines -- which originated in the 1930s with sci-fi fans in the US -- is growing in Japan, especially among younger generations.

From Barron's ● Jun. 1, 2026

The maker of house paint said demand from do-it-yourself customers remained weak and warned that it may continue raising prices to offset the inflationary impact of geopolitical upheaval and the related spike in energy costs.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Apr. 28, 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

And, in truth, my do-it-yourself meal did not come out exactly as I hoped.

From "The Omnivore's Dilemma" by Michael Pollan

Related Words

• handmade