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

Crisis when a radical Quebec separatist group, the Front de Libération du Québec (FLQ), kidnapped high profile politicians to escalate their battle for independence from Canada and lead Ottawa to impose the War Measures Act. —Etan Vlessing, HollywoodReporter, 18 May 2025

Her mission is to empower these individuals through transformative life and career coaching, fostering personal growth, independence and long-term well-being. —Julie Kratz, Forbes.com, 18 May 2025

The Athletic maintains full editorial independence. —Steven Louis Goldstein, New York Times, 18 May 2025

This doesn’t mean you’re meant to be single or alone, but that you’re meant to have mastered the art of independence and having your own identity, free from the confines of a relationship. —Roya Backlund, StyleCaster, 16 May 2025

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

Rhymes for independence

• ascendance
• attendance
• dependance
• dependence
• transcendence
• interdependence
• superintendence
• tendance

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