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.
Struggle for self-sufficiency The devastating outbreak reshaped China’s blood products industry, prompting sweeping regulations throughout the entire chain from plasma collection to clinical use. — Cnn Staff, CNN Money, 23 Aug. 2026 China is building its fuel-cell supply chain for export competitiveness, while India is focusing on low-cost rail retrofits in line with its national self-sufficiency vision. — Jenny Lee,priyanka Salve, CNBC, 20 Aug. 2026 Azerbaijan has one of the highest energy self-sufficiency rates in the world. — Daniel Markind, Forbes.com, 17 Aug. 2026 Even sequels and prequels — say, those in the Star Wars canon — ideally aspire to a degree of self-sufficiency in which the audience can discern the story and, properly bewitched, can proceed to seek out the other movies. — Peter Tonguette, The Washington Examiner, 15 Aug. 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 26 Aug. 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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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