self-reference
nounUK /ˌself ˈrefrəns/
US /ˌself ˈrefrəns/
Self-reference is when something talks about or points to itself.
The sentence 'This sentence is short' is a fun example of self-reference.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. In logic, a statement that refers to itself, which can create paradoxes.
The liar paradox, 'This statement is false,' is a classic case of self-reference.
3. In computing, when a program or function calls or describes itself.
A recursive function uses self-reference to solve smaller parts of a problem.
4. In art or writing, when a work mentions its own making or existence.
The movie's self-reference included characters joking about being in a film.