Themselves | Definition of themselves by Merriam-Webster

Full Definition of THEMSELVES

1

a : those identical ones that are they — compare they 1a —used reflexively, for emphasis, or in absolute constructions <nations that govern themselves> <they themselves were present> <themselves busy, they disliked idleness in others>

b : himself or herself : himself, herself —used with an indefinite third person singular antecedent <nobody can call themselves oppressed — Leonard Wibberley>

2

: their normal, healthy, or sane condition <were themselves again after a night's rest>

Usage Discussion of THEMSELVES

They used as an indefinite subject (sense 2) is sometimes objected to on the grounds that it does not have an antecedent. Not every pronoun requires an antecedent, however. The indefinite they is used in all varieties of contexts and is standard.

They, their, them, themselves: English lacks a common-gender third person singular pronoun that can be used to refer to indefinite pronouns (as everyone, anyone, someone). Writers and speakers have supplied this lack by using the plural pronouns <and every one to rest themselves betake — Shakespeare> <I would have everybody marry if they can do it properly — Jane Austen> <it is too hideous for anyone in their senses to buy — W. H. Auden>. The plural pronouns have also been put to use as pronouns of indefinite number to refer to singular nouns that stand for many persons <'tis meet that some more audience than a mother, since nature makes them partial, should o'erhear the speech — Shakespeare> <a person can't help their birth — W. M. Thackeray> <no man goes to battle to be killed. — But they do get killed — G. B. Shaw>. The use of they, their, them, and themselves as pronouns of indefinite gender and indefinite number is well established in speech and writing, even in literary and formal contexts. This gives you the option of using the plural pronouns where you think they sound best, and of using the singular pronouns (as he, she, he or she, and their inflected forms) where you think they sound best.

First Known Use of THEMSELVES

13th century

Rhymes with THEMSELVES

ourselves, yourselves

Definition of THEMSELVES for Kids

: their own selves <They enjoyed themselves.> <The students did it themselves.>

Learn More About THEMSELVES

Spanish Central: Spanish translation of "themselves"

Nglish: Translation of "themselves" for Spanish speakers

Britannica English: Translation of "themselves" for Arabic speakers

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