self-sufficiency

noun

self-suf·​fi·​cien·​cy ˌself-sə-ˈfi-shən(t)-sē How to pronounce self-sufficiency (audio)
Synonyms of self-sufficiencynext
: the quality or state of being self-sufficient

Synonyms of self-sufficiency

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Examples of self-sufficiency in a Sentence

self-sufficiency is a goal that all teenagers should work towards
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
On her modest bookshelf, Gurdon already had useful models of self-sufficiency. — Danny Heitman, Christian Science Monitor, 15 Oct. 2026 But, as is often the case, the illusion of self-sufficiency depends on other people. — Molly Fischer, New Yorker, 12 Oct. 2026 North Americans also have access to cutting-edge technologies, abundant financial capital, energy self-sufficiency, and the capacity to expand their production of oil, gas, and renewables. — Robert B. Zoellick, Foreign Affairs, 9 Oct. 2026 The Whole Earth Catalog, founded by writer and editor Stewart Brand, promoted ecological knowledge and self-sufficiency, but was still a compendium of things to buy. — Los Angeles Times, 7 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for self-sufficiency

Word History

First Known Use

1598, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-sufficiency was in 1598

Rhymes for self-sufficiency

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Browse Nearby Words

self-substantial
self-sufficiency
self-sufficient
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Cite this Entry

“Self-sufficiency.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-sufficiency. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

self-sufficiency

noun
self-suf·​fi·​cien·​cy
ˌself-sə-ˈfish-ən-sē
: the quality or state of being self-sufficient
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