himself
- 1Used to show that a man or boy does something to or for the same person who is doing the action.
Like a boomerang: when a man throws it, it comes right back to him.
He cut himself while chopping vegetables.
The new student introduced himself to the class.
UsageHe hurt himself: he hurt his own body. He hurt him: he hurt another man.
Note
- 2Used to stress one particular man or boy, often to show that he, and nobody else, did the thing.
Like underlining someone's name to show it was that man and no one else.
The king himself came to greet the soldiers.
He fixed the engine himself, without any help.
UsagePut it after the name or at the end: he did it himself.
Note
- 3A man's or boy's normal way of feeling and acting, often used after be, feel or seem.
Grandpa hasn't been himself since he got sick last month.
After a good night's sleep, Leo seemed more like himself again.
UsageOften not himself (not feeling or acting as usual) or himself again (better).
Note
Less common meanings
- 4He or him, said of the most important man in a home or group, or mockingly of a self-important man.
Is himself at home, or has he gone to the market?
Himself wants his tea ready the moment he walks in.
UsageUsed instead of the man's name: himself is home. Your tone shows if it is kind or mocking.
Note
- 5An old way of saying he himself or him, still used as a subject or object in Ireland.
Practice
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Origin
From Old English "him selfum," made from "him" plus "-self."
Checked 5 Nov 2026 · 2 facts
- Himself derives from Old English him selfum. en.wiktionary.org
- Himself is formed from him plus -self. en.wiktionary.org