self-reference

[self-ref-er-uh ns, -ref-ruh ns] /ˈsɛlfˈrɛf ər əns, -ˈrɛf rəns/

noun

reference made to oneself, to one's own character or experience, or to a group with which one identifies.

Logic. the property of a statement that is a statement about itself, as “This statement is grammatical.”.

Related forms

self-referential

[self-ref-uh-ren-shuh l] /ˈsɛlfˌrɛf əˈrɛn ʃəl/ (Show IPA), self-referring

[self-ri-fur-ing] /ˈsɛlf rɪˈfɜr ɪŋ/ (Show IPA), adjective

self-referentially, adverb

Usage note

Social, ethnic, or other groups often use terms of self-reference in a neutral, even affectionate or jocular way, much like nicknames. These self-referential terms function to reinforce solidarity among members of the group. However, when used by outsiders, these very same terms are perceived as highly offensive by those who belong to the group. Examples of self-referential terms are Canuck, chick, dyke, geek, nigger, queer.

Examples from the web for self-reference

All that self-reference, and that was besides the many shimmery reflective surfaces.
It's certainly an interesting suggestion that a paradox of self-reference could emerge here.
The special rule for self-reference applies also to indirect self-reference.

self-reference in Technology

See self-reference.
[Jargon File]