self-contained
adjective
self-con·tained
ˌself-kən-ˈtānd 
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
Examples of self-contained in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
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 
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.
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
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 28 Nov. 2024.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share