help oneself

Verb

help oneself (third-person singular simple present helps oneself, present participle helping oneself, simple past and past participle helped oneself)

1. (reflexive) To serve oneself, especially to take food or other supplies, rather than wait to be served by another; used to indicate friendly permission or invitation.
   • If you want to take a shower, help yourself to towels; they're in the linen closet.
   • Is it all right if I get some water? —Oh, of course, help yourself!
2. (reflexive) To take something freely; to serve oneself without restraint.
   • He said I could help myself to the chocolates.
   • He didn't even ask; he just helped himself to the special tea I was saving.
3. To exhibit self-control.
   • Sorry for eating all the chocolates - I couldn't help myself.

   Synonyms:

   contain oneself

4. Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see help.
   • God helps those who help themselves.