Definition

Relating to a system or economy that is self-sufficient and does not rely on external trade or assistance.

Example

The country adopted autarkical policies to ensure it could sustain itself without foreign imports.

Conversation

Have you ever thought about how some countries try to be more autarkical?

Yeah, it's interesting how they want to be self-sufficient.

I wonder if that's really possible in today's global economy.

It would be tough, but I guess some places might really benefit from being autarkical.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Autarkical → It is formed from "auto-" (from Greek "αὐτός", meaning self) and "arkein" (from Greek, meaning to be strong or sufficient). The word describes a state of being self-sufficient or self-reliant.

Memory Tip

Think of 'self' ('auto-') being 'sufficient' ('arkein') — that's why autarkical means being self-sufficient.

Visually Confused Words