self
UK[sɛlf]US[sɛlf]
n
A person's essential being that distinguishes them from others, especially considered as the object of introspection or reflexive action.
pron
Used on a check or other document to refer to the same person as the one signing it.
adj
(Of a trimming or cover) of the same material as the rest of the item.
Etymology
The word 'self' originates from the Old English 'self', 'seolf', or 'sylf', which meant "one's own person, same." This Old English term is derived from the Proto-Germanic selbaz, a word of uncertain deeper origin, though it is likely connected to the reflexive pronoun. The core concept has remained remarkably stable from its ancient Germanic roots, consistently denoting the essential identity or sameness of a person or thing. Over time, its grammatical function expanded from a simple noun to also serve as a pronoun and adjective, and it became a highly productive combining form (as in 'self-aware', 'selfish', 'myself'), central to expressing concepts of identity and reflexivity in the English language.
Analysis
The word 'self' is a simplex word of Old English origin. It functions as a root noun.
Examples
She seemed like her usual cheerful self again.
Please make the check payable to self.
The dress had a self belt made from the same fabric.