self-contained

[self-kuhn-teynd, self-]

adjective

1. containing in oneself or itself all that is necessary; independent.

2. reserved or uncommunicative.

3. self-controlled or self-possessed.

4. (of a machine or mechanism) complete in itself.

self-contained

adjective

1. containing within itself all parts necessary for completeness

2. (of a flat) having its own kitchen, bathroom, and lavatory not shared by others and usually having its own entrance

3. able or tending to keep one's feelings, thoughts, etc, to oneself; reserved

4. able to control one's feelings or emotions in the presence of others

Other Word Forms

• self-containedly adverb
• self-containedness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of self-contained¹

First recorded in 1585–95

Example Sentences

He added the council "recognises the impact" on families and has instead been placing families in self-contained housing.

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The pair feel that there is more to explore, but Matt's twin brother Ross explains they always saw the original story as a self-contained arc and it's definitely "the end for these characters".

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These biochemical reactions occur independently of the ocean above, showing that these microbes operate in a self-contained ecosystem.

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Xi was self-contained, and said only what he had prepared.

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The UK government have informed us that their accommodation will be self-contained, with all necessary services provided on site.

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Related Words

• autonomous 
• self-governing www.thesaurus.com
• self-sufficient 
• self-supporting