English Lexicon

Self-governing

/ˌsɛlfˈɡʌv.ər.nɪŋ/
adjectiveCEFR C1 (Advanced)Top #6500 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As adjective
  1. 1

    Exercising control over one's own affairs; independent or autonomous in political, administrative, or operational matters.

    "The territory transitioned into a self-governing commonwealth after decades of colonial rule."
  2. 2

    Regulating oneself or itself without external authority or intervention.

    "Professional associations often act as self-governing bodies to maintain ethical standards."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

Derived from the combination of the reflexive prefix 'self-' (from Old English 'self') and 'governing', the present participle of 'govern' (originating from Old French 'governer', from Latin 'gubernare', meaning to steer or rule). The compound emerged in the late 16th to early 17th century during periods of heightened political discourse regarding autonomy, sovereignty, and constitutional governance.

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