self-contained

adjective

self-con·​tained ˌself-kən-ˈtānd How to pronounce self-contained (audio)
1
a
: complete in itself : independent
a self-contained machine
a self-contained program of study
b
: built-in
a lectern with a self-contained light fixture
2
a
: showing self-control
b
: formal and reserved in manner
self-containedly adverb
self-containedness noun
self-containment noun

Examples of self-contained in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Back then, comedies and dramas airing on three major networks churned out 20 to 25 episode per season, most of them self-contained with very few plot points that lasted beyond one episode. Julie Hinds, Detroit Free Press, 30 Oct. 2024 Storytelling may be self-contained within episodes or carry-over between episodes, and generally must be bound by specific, consistent benchmarks or prescribed templates within a standardized pattern of action. Joe Reid, Vulture, 3 Aug. 2024 Applications should be self-contained and sandboxed. Stephanie Domas, Forbes, 21 Oct. 2024 Fiercely self-contained, Ka sold vinyl and CDs on his website and through select stores across the U.S. and Europe. Mosi Reeves, Rolling Stone, 15 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for self-contained 

Word History

First Known Use

1605, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-contained was in 1605

Dictionary Entries Near self-contained

Cite this Entry

“Self-contained.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-contained. Accessed 26 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

self-contained

adjective
self-con·​tained
ˌself-kən-ˈtānd
1
: enough or complete in itself
2
a
: showing self-control
b
: keeping one's thoughts and feelings to oneself
self-containment
-ˈtān-mənt
noun

More from Merriam-Webster on self-contained

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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