Definition

Describing someone who has learned a skill or subject on their own, without formal education or a teacher.

Example

She is an autodidactic artist who learned to paint by watching online tutorials.

Conversation

I just found out that she’s completely autodidactic in graphic design.

Wow, that’s impressive! How did she learn everything on her own?

She said she just watched tutorials online and practiced a lot.

That’s really inspiring; being autodidactic can lead to great skills!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Autodidactic is formed from "auto-" (meaning self) and "didaktikos" (from Greek, meaning teaching or instructive). The word describes a person who is self-taught, learning independently without formal instruction.

Memory Tip

Think of 'self' ('auto-') learning or teaching ('didaktikos') — that's what autodidactic means.

Visually Confused Words