self-service

noun

self-ser·​vice ˈself-ˈsər-vəs 

: the serving of oneself (as in a restaurant or gas station) with goods or services to be paid for at a cashier's desk or by using a coin-operated mechanism or a credit or debit card

self-service adjective

Examples of self-service in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The company has extended its self-service diagnostics tool to Europe, giving customers in 32 countries an easier way to test products for potential issues. —Chris Welch, The Verge, 26 June 2024

In addition, there are self-service wellness options including nine relaxation pods, five of which offer full-body, zero-gravity massage chairs. —Chris Dong, Travel + Leisure, 25 June 2024

Then, place your pitcher on the bar cart or serving area alongside a giant bowl of ice as well as some fun and decorative glassware for self-service. —Krista Simmons, Sunset Magazine, 24 June 2024

The upgrades also allow for 24/7 self-service customer support on questions around shipments, deliveries and order statuses. —Meghan Hall, Sourcing Journal, 18 June 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1913, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

self-service

noun

self-ser·​vice

ˈself-ˈsər-vəs

: the serving of oneself (as in a restaurant or gas station) with things to be paid for at a cashier's desk or by means of a mechanism that is operated by coins

self-service adjective