independence

independence

noun

Definition of INDEPENDENCE

1

the ability to care for one's self <children are supposed to achieve some measure of independence by the time they are 18—so it's time for that 30-year-old to move out!>

Synonyms independence, self-dependence, self-reliance, self-subsistence, self-support

Related Words autonomy, freedom, self-determination; potency, power, resilience, strength

Near Antonyms helplessness, impotence, impotency, inadequacy, weakness

Antonyms dependence (also dependance), reliance

2

the state of being free from the control or power of another <college freshmen often revel in their newfound independence>

Synonyms autonomy, independence, independency, liberty, self-determination, self-governance, self-government, sovereignty (also sovranty)

Related Words emancipation, enfranchisement, liberation, manumission, release

Near Antonyms captivity, enchainment, enslavement, immurement, imprisonment, incarceration, internment, subjugation

Antonyms dependence (also dependance), heteronomy, subjection, unfreedom