Herself

Definition

Herself is a reflexive pronoun used to refer back to a female subject previously mentioned in the sentence. It can also be used for emphasis or to indicate that the subject is acting independently.

Parts of Speech

• Pronoun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /hərˈsɛlf/
• Respelling: hur-SELF

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /həˈsɛlf/
• Respelling: huh-SELF

Etymology

The word "herself" originates from Old English "hire self," combining "hire" (the dative and genitive form of "heo," meaning "she") and "self" (used for emphasis or reflexivity). The modern form emerged in Middle English, where it was solidified as a compound pronoun.

Derivatives

• Hers (possessive pronoun)
• Herself’s (possessive reflexive, informal)
• Self (root word)
• Herselfly (archaic, rarely used)
• She (related subject pronoun)

Synonyms

• None

Antonyms

• Himself
• Themselves
• None

Usage

The pronoun "herself" is often used in reflexive constructions. For example, "She prepared herself for the presentation."

It can also add emphasis to a sentence. For example, "She herself baked the cake."

Related Terms

• She: A subject pronoun referring to a female person.
• Hers: A possessive pronoun indicating ownership by a female.
• Reflexive pronoun: A category of pronouns used when the subject and object of a verb are the same.

Detailed Definitions

Pronoun

• Used reflexively: Refers back to the subject of a sentence when the subject is female.
  • Example: "She looked at herself in the mirror."
• Used for emphasis: Highlights that the subject is the one performing the action.
  • Example: "The queen herself made the announcement."
• Used to indicate independence: Suggests that the action is done without assistance.
  • Example: "She completed the project all by herself."