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 of independence

• autonomy
• freedom
• self-sufficiency
• self-reliance

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

Last July, Ukrainians took to the streets in rare wartime protests to push back against the government’s plans to weaken the independence of the country’s anti-corruption watchdogs. —Ivana Kottasová, CNN Money, 20 Feb. 2026

There’s no proven way to prevent or cure the disease, but delaying its onset—even modestly—can help preserve and prolong people’s independence and quality of life. —Julia Ries Wexler, Health, 19 Feb. 2026

Zack took the cue and led with Altadena’s sense of independence as a quality worth conserving. —Steve Lopez, Los Angeles Times, 19 Feb. 2026

Oklahoma Voice maintains editorial independence. —Barbara Hoberock, Oklahoman, 19 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

independ(ent) entry 1 + -ence

Note: Compare slightly earlier dates for Middle French independance, Italian independenza.

First Known Use

1606, 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