independence

noun

in·​de·​pen·​dence ˌin-də-ˈpen-dən(t)s 

1

: the quality or state of being independent

2

archaic : competence sense 2

Synonyms

• self-dependence
• self-reliance
• self-subsistence
• self-sufficiency
• self-support

Examples of independence in a Sentence

She asserted her independence from her parents by getting her own apartment.

He has shown a fierce independence of spirit.

A month after independence, elections were held.

Recent Examples on the Web

During a short stretch working at a think tank in between government jobs, Nabiullina was responsible for preparing the agenda of the G-8 event that focused on themes such as energy independence. —Rachel Ventresca, Fortune Europe, 7 June 2024

The Delaware Chancery Court ruled that there was a lack of independence among directors and that improper negotiations took place between Musk and the board. —Rachel Ventresca, Fortune, 7 June 2024

Valle Roca was arrested in June 2021 after reporting on a protest in Old Havana in which human rights activists threw leaflets with phrases by Cuban independence leaders José Martí and Antonio Maceo. —Nora Gámez Torres, Miami Herald, 5 June 2024

Student editors said the intervention was a breach of editorial independence. —Jake Offenhartz, The Christian Science Monitor, 5 June 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1640, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing independence

• declare (one's) independence
• linear independence
• war of independence

Kids Definition

independence

noun

in·​de·​pen·​dence ˌin-də-ˈpen-dən(t)s 

: the quality or state of being independent : freedom from outside control or support

Geographical Definition

Independence

geographical name

In·​de·​pen·​dence ˌin-də-ˈpen-dən(t)s 

city in western Missouri east of Kansas City population 116,830