Synonyms

self-reliant

American

[self-ri-lahy-uhnt, self-] / ˈsɛlf rɪˈlaɪ ənt, ˌsɛlf- /

adjective

relying on oneself or on one's own powers, resources, etc.

Synonyms:

capable, resolute, enterprising, assured, independent

Other Word Forms

self-reliantly

adverb

Etymology

Origin of self-reliant

First recorded in 1840–50

Vocabulary lists containing self-reliant

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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.

And Kris Bordessa, the author of “Attainable Sustainable: The Lost Art of Self-Reliant Living,” once lined her driveway with large fabric planters, reclaiming the hot asphalt slab.

From Seattle Times • Jun. 22, 2022

Bonsall’s method of growing “perennial food crops with minimal fossil fuel and animal inputs”, is laid out in his book, an Essential Guide to Radical, Self-Reliant Gardening.

From The Guardian • Dec. 24, 2019

Leading the Search for a Self-Reliant Bloom Among gardeners, roses are known as the aging celebrities of the flower world.

From New York Times • Jul. 27, 2012

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023