self-starter

American  

[self-stahr-ter] / ˈsɛlfˈstɑr tər /

noun

1. starter.

2. Informal. a person who begins work or undertakes a project on their own initiative, without needing to be told or encouraged to do so.

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self-starter British  

noun

1. the former name for a starter

2. a person who is strongly motivated and shows initiative, esp at work

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Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• self-starting
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of self-starter

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

“Taking initiative, being a self starter and being able to advocate for yourself is a skillset that is helpful when you practice law.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 5, 2026

There was a self starter, but the battery was dead, of course.

From "Z for Zachariah" by Robert C. O’Brien

"I thought you were going to buy the store out," said the waiting girl, impatiently pressing the self starter button and the car rumbled off.

From The Girl Scouts at Sea Crest Or, the Wig Wag Rescue by Garis, Lilian

In some unaccountable way the Monarch II had no sooner glided along on its pontoon, than it had run straightway up into the air, as though the self starter was in perfect action.

From Dave Dashaway and His Hydroplane by Rockwood, Roy

"All ready," ordered Dave, in a set, sturdy tone, and the self starter began to work.

From Dave Dashaway and His Hydroplane by Rockwood, Roy