self-explanatory

adjective

self-ex·​plan·​a·​to·​ry ˌself-ik-ˈspla-nə-ˌtȯr-ē How to pronounce self-explanatory (audio)
Synonyms of self-explanatorynext
: explaining itself : capable of being understood without explanation

Examples of self-explanatory 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.
Some of them, like the washtub, are fairly self-explanatory. — The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 Feb. 2026 This one is pretty self-explanatory. — Katie Grant, Parents, 4 Mar. 2026 Hair loss is self-explanatory, while dryness results from damage to the outer layer of the cuticle, leading to moisture loss and hair that feels coarse and appears dull. — Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 8 June 2026 The remaining options are self-explanatory, and there's enough variety for photographers to find one that suits their personal style. — Jim Fisher, PC Magazine, 13 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for self-explanatory

Word History

First Known Use

1737, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-explanatory was in 1737

Rhymes for self-explanatory

See All Rhymes for self-explanatory

Browse Nearby Words

self-explaining
self-explanatory
self-exploration
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Self-explanatory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-explanatory. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

self-explanatory

adjective
self-ex·​plan·​a·​to·​ry
ˌsel-fik-ˈsplan-ə-ˌtōr-ē, 
-ˌtȯr-
: understandable without explanation

More from Merriam-Webster on self-explanatory

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for self-explanatory

Nglish: Translation of self-explanatory for Spanish Speakers

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