self-contained
UK: ˌself kənˈteɪnd | US: ˌself kənˈteɪnd
adj. complete with all necessary parts and not requiring external support
adj. emotionally independent or reserved
adj. (of a device or system) functioning independently without external connections
The word "self-contained" combines "self" (Old English self, meaning "oneself") with "contain" (Latin continēre, "to hold together") and the suffix "-ed" (forming adjectives). Originally used literally (e.g., machinery requiring no external components), it later extended metaphorically to describe emotional independence. The morphemes reflect a logical progression: "self" (autonomy) + "contain" (internal completeness) → "self-sufficient."
The tiny house is fully self-contained, with its own solar power and water supply.
She was quiet and self-contained, rarely sharing her personal thoughts.
The laboratory uses self-contained breathing apparatus for safety.
His self-contained demeanor made him seem aloof at first.
The spacecraft’s self-contained ecosystem supports astronauts for months.