self-contained
Americanadjective
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containing in oneself or itself all that is necessary; independent.
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reserved or uncommunicative.
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self-controlled or self-possessed.
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(of a machine or mechanism) complete in itself.
adjective
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containing within itself all parts necessary for completeness
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(of a flat) having its own kitchen, bathroom, and lavatory not shared by others and usually having its own entrance
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able or tending to keep one's feelings, thoughts, etc, to oneself; reserved
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able to control one's feelings or emotions in the presence of others
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of self-contained
First recorded in 1585–95
Vocabulary lists containing self-contained
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Although the movie is a continuation of the series, “The Mandalorian and Grogu” is a self-contained story that does not require any “Star Wars” homework.
From Los Angeles Times • May 21, 2026
"In the long run, self-contained people may not be able to survive in this competitive world," he said.
From Barron's • May 18, 2026
“Above the garage, a charming self-contained guest apartment completes this very special estate,” adds the listing.
From MarketWatch • Apr. 17, 2026
This idea of self-contained escape has become a defining feature of recent travel patterns, with short domestic breaks offering a controlled and often more affordable alternative to longer holidays abroad.
From BBC • Apr. 14, 2026
To emphasise the intended awe and majesty of the occasion, Louis XIV’s long, mythological ballets would begin with a self-contained instrumental introduction, or opening.
From "The Story of Music" by Howard Goodall
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
