self-treatment

noun

self-treat·​ment ˌself-ˈtrēt-mənt How to pronounce self-treatment (audio)
plural self-treatments
: the act or an instance of medicating oneself or treating one's own disease without medical supervision or intervention
Unlike other foot problems, bunions are not amenable to self-treatment.Consumer Reports
Some attempt risky self-treatments, such as bathing in kerosene or bleach …Aimee Cunningham
self-treat transitive verb
self-treated; self-treating; self-treats
self-treat athlete's foot

Examples of self-treatment in a Sentence

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.
Many mental health experts have serious concerns about people who are socially isolated—autistic or not—relying on AI companionship apps as a means of self-treatment or escapism. Webb Wright, Scientific American, 5 June 2024 Other self-treatment methods include applying cool compresses and cooling creams that help with barrier repair and prevent further moisture from leaving the skin, Geddes-Bruce said. Alyssa Hui, Verywell Health, 5 June 2024 The increase in chronic diseases and health problems in our society often entails the need for home care or self-treatment at home. IEEE Spectrum, 23 Feb. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

1823, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-treatment was in 1823

Dictionary Entries Near self-treatment

Cite this Entry

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

Medical Definition

self-treatment

noun
self-treat·​ment ˈself-ˈtrēt-mənt How to pronounce self-treatment (audio)
: the act or an instance of medicating oneself or treating one's own disease without medical supervision or intervention
Unlike other foot problems, bunions are not amenable to self-treatment.Consumer Reports
self-treat transitive verb
self-treated; self-treating
self-treat poison ivy
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