The present disclosure relates to content addressable memories (CAM), and more particularly, to a searchable CAM structure having self-reference matchline precharge and local feedback control and method of use. The present disclosure includes a structure which includes: a sense line connected to a sensing device; a feedback line connected to the sense line at a tap point between a first end and a second end of the sense line; and a local precharge controller connected to the tap point by the feedback line to control precharging of the sense line according to a state of the feedback line.