self-feed

[ self-feed, self- ]

verb (used with object)

, Agriculture.

, self-fed, self-feed·ing.

1. to provide a supply of food to (animals) so as to allow them to eat as much and as often as they want. Compare hand-feed ( def 1 ).

Word History and Origins

Origin of self-feed¹

First recorded in 1865–70

Example Sentences

For this self-feed plan it is claimed that both feed and labor are saved, thus reducing production costs.

From Project Gutenberg

There is usually a self feed which may be regulated according to the work.

From Project Gutenberg