Pronunciation: [bˈuːtstɹapt] (IPA) 
The word "bootstrapped" is spelled with two "p's" at the end, even though it may seem like only one is needed. This is because the word comes from the concept of "pulling oneself up by one's own bootstraps," and the double "p" helps to emphasize the strength and effort required to do so. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is spelled /ˈbuːtstræpt/, with the stress on the first syllable "boot."
Bootstrapped is an adjective that describes a process or venture that is initiated, developed, or managed without external assistance or funding. The term derives from the phrase "to pull oneself up by one's bootstraps," which illustrates the concept of achieving success through one's own efforts and resources.
In the business context, bootstrapped typically refers to a startup or entrepreneurial venture that is self-funded, meaning it is financed solely by its founders or through reinvested profits. These enterprises operate without the support of venture capital, bank loans, or other forms of external funding. Bootstrapped businesses are often characterized by their lean and efficient operations, as they have limited financial resources and must carefully manage their expenses.
Bootstrapped can also be used more broadly to describe any process or activity that relies solely on existing resources and capabilities. It conveys the idea of using one's own ingenuity, hard work, and perseverance to achieve a goal or overcome a challenge, without relying on external assistance.
Overall, bootstrapped embodies the concept of self-reliance and resourcefulness, emphasizing an individual or organization's ability to achieve success through their own efforts and existing means, without assistance from external sources of support or financing.
The term "bootstrapped" is derived from the expression "to pull oneself up by one's bootstraps". This expression originated in the mid-19th century in the United States and initially referred to a physically impossible act of lifting oneself off the ground by tugging on one's own bootstraps.
In the early 20th century, the phrase began being used metaphorically to describe achieving success or improving one's situation through one's own efforts and resources. This metaphor was later applied to startups and business ventures that were self-funded or self-supported. The concept of "bootstrapping" in the business context implies building and growing a company without external financial assistance or significant capital investment. The term "bootstrapped" eventually emerged as a past participle form to describe businesses or projects that have been self-started and self-sustained.
