a combining form of self and variously used with the meanings “of the self” (self-analysis) and “by oneself or itself” (self-appointed); and with the meanings “to, with, toward, for, on, in oneself” (self-complacent), “inherent in oneself or itself” (self-explanatory), “independent” (self-government), and “automatic” (self-operating).
British Dictionary definitions for self-
self-
combining form
1.
of oneself or itself: self-defence, self-rule
2.
by, to, in, due to, for, or from the self: self-employed, self-inflicted, self-respect
3.
automatic or automatically: self-propelled
Word Origin and History for self-
word forming element indicating "oneself," also "automatic," from Old English use of self (pron.) in compounds, e.g. selfbana "suicide," selflice "self-love, pride, vanity, egotism," selfwill "free will."