Definition

A pronoun used to refer back to the male person previously mentioned, often for emphasis or to indicate that the person is doing something for themselves.

Example

He looked at himself in the mirror before leaving the house.

Conversation

Did you see how John handled that situation by himself?

Yeah, it was impressive!

I think he really surprised himself too.

Definitely! He proved he could do it alone.

Root Explanation

Himself → The word is formed from "him" (from Old English "him", meaning him) and "self" (from Old English "self", meaning oneself). The term "himself" refers to the person referred to as 'him' in a reflexive manner, indicating that the action is performed by that person on themselves.

Memory Tip

Think of 'him' as the person and 'self' as referring to that person themselves — that's why 'himself' means that person acting on their own.

Visually Confused Words