Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Self-contained \Self`-con*tained"\, a.
   1. Having self-control; reserved; uncommunicative; wholly
      engrossed in one's self.

   2. (Mach.) Having all the essential working parts connected
      by a bedplate or framework, or contained in a case, etc.,
      so that mutual relations of the parts do not depend upon
      fastening outside of the machine itself.

   {Self-contained steam engine}.
      (a) A steam engine having both bearings for the crank
          shaft attached to the frame of the engine.
      (b) A steam engine and boiler combined and fastened
          together; a portable steam engine.