self-government
Americannoun
-
control of the government of a state, community, or other body by its own members; democratic government.
-
the condition of being self-governed.
noun
-
the government of a country, nation, etc, by its own people
-
the state of being self-controlled
-
an archaic term for self-control
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of self-government
First recorded in 1725–35
Vocabulary lists containing self-government
The American Revolution - Introductory
Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!
The American Revolution - Middle School and High School
Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!
History of India - Introductory
Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!
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.
The New York Historical showcases the evolution of our nation’s hallmark idea of self-government in a thoughtful, if sometimes pessimistic, exhibition.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jul. 2, 2026
This is already happening in Washington, where the Home Rule Act of 1973, which gave the city limited self-government, allows Congress oversight.
From Salon • Mar. 26, 2026
They want their own right of self-determination and self-government in their Native nations.
From Slate • Mar. 16, 2026
Danes returning after the war found a population that wanted self-government.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 24, 2026
The foundation of self-government was that all men were free to voice their opinions and equal in their value as citizens.
From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela
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.
