self-contained

[ self-kuhn-teynd, self- ]

adjective

1. containing in oneself or itself all that is necessary; independent.
2. reserved or uncommunicative.
3. self-controlled or self-possessed.
4. (of a machine or mechanism) complete in itself.

self-contained

adjective

1. containing within itself all parts necessary for completeness
2. (of a flat) having its own kitchen, bathroom, and lavatory not shared by others and usually having its own entrance
3. able or tending to keep one's feelings, thoughts, etc, to oneself; reserved
4. able to control one's feelings or emotions in the presence of others

Derived Forms

• ˌself-conˈtainedly, adverb
• ˌself-conˈtainedness, noun

Other Words From

• self-con·tain·ed·ly [self, -k, uh, n-, tey, -nid-lee, self-], adverb
• self-con·tained·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of self-contained¹

First recorded in 1585–95

Example Sentences

The Atlanta rapper has accomplished something comparable to what Tyler, the Creator has done in L.A. over the years — build a self-contained universe around the intersection of uncompromising hip-hop, “Hesher” dirtbag aesthetics and avant-garde fashion.

From Los Angeles Times

It feels familiar and self-contained, the two of us alone in our little rectangle-shaped world.

From Los Angeles Times

The Wooster Group version is a far cry from the “sober” and “emotionally self-contained” vision that Foreman claimed he was after.

From Los Angeles Times

More often than not, these shows are episodic — meaning most episodes tell self-contained stories rather than serve as chapters in a single narrative.

From Los Angeles Times

The situation of a young woman showing up at a psychotherapist’s office with a gun sets up a self-contained dramatic situation that audiences seem to relish.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• autonomous
• self-governing
• self-sufficient
• self-supporting