'self-sufficient' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'sufficere,' where 'suf-' meant 'under' and 'facere' meant 'to make or do.'

'sufficere' transformed into the Old French word 'suffisant,' and eventually became the modern English word 'sufficient' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to make or do enough,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'able to provide for oneself.'