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.
China’s chip self-sufficiency rate reached roughly 70% by production volume in June, compared with 38% in January 2010, according to Goldman. — Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 30 Aug. 2026 Their goals are to improve the well being of children while promoting family unification, and to assist families to achieve economic and social self-sufficiency. — News Release, San Diego Union-Tribune, 29 Aug. 2026 Moreover, Europe’s growing self-sufficiency will make each subsequent cut easier than the last. — Jennifer Kavanagh, Foreign Affairs, 28 Aug. 2026 The draft budget sets eight priorities, including food and energy self-sufficiency. — Celestine Iyer, CNBC, 26 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 1 Sep. 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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