bootstrap

1 of 3

noun

boot·​strap ˈbüt-ˌstrap 

1

: a looped strap sewed at the side or the rear top of a boot to help in pulling it on

2

bootstraps plural : unaided efforts

—often used in the phrase by one's own bootstraps

bootstrap

2 of 3

adjective

1

: designed to function independently of outside direction : capable of using one internal function or process to control another

a bootstrap operation to load a computer

2

: carried out with minimum resources or advantages

bootstrap efforts

bootstrap

3 of 3

verb

bootstrapped; bootstrapping

transitive verb

: to promote or develop by initiative and effort with little or no assistance

bootstrapped herself to the top

… turns out to be pretty talented at identifying and bootstrapping promising creative endeavors.

—Harry McCracken

bootstrapper noun

Examples of bootstrap in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

By nature of the state support they’re afforded, the average Chinese manufacturer is going to have much newer and more advanced equipment than counterparts in the U.S. At risk of sounding cliché: American manufacturers need to continue to pull themselves up by their bootstraps. —Ethan Karp, Forbes, 30 Oct. 2024

Studies show that eight out of ten startups bootstrap, relying on their personal capital and profits. —Sabeer Nelliparamban, Forbes, 9 Oct. 2024

Adjective

The bootstrap origin story of the man who allegedly invented the cult-favorite snack Flamin’ Hot Cheetos is being told in a new feature film directed by actress and Corpus Christi native Eva Longoria. —Gabriella Ybarra, San Antonio Express-News, 16 Mar. 2023

Verb

Many business owners choose to bootstrap their business, which is a means of self-funding business growth. —Melissa Houston, Forbes, 6 Dec. 2024

Many women tech founders bootstrap their ventures initially, making cash flow management essential for survival and growth. —Melissa Houston, Forbes, 3 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Noun

boot entry 3 + strap entry 1

Adjective

from attributive use of bootstrap entry 1

Verb

derivative of bootstrap entry 1 or bootstrap entry 2

First Known Use

Noun

1875, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Adjective

1926, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

1951, in the meaning defined above