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

When British envoys arrive promising support for Rukumba’s independence from Uganda in exchange for access to the snow for scientific research, the village committee embraces the deal as progress. — Georg Szalai, HollywoodReporter, 10 Aug. 2026

Tradition—and respect for judicial independence—had prevented it. — Margaret Talbot, New Yorker, 10 Aug. 2026

But they’ve never been litigated — and the developments are already stoking fears of diminishing Fed independence as the central bank weighs whether to raise interest rates at its next meeting. — Eleanor Mueller, semafor.com, 10 Aug. 2026

Accountability is necessary, as are academic freedom and institutional independence. — Marybeth Gasman, Forbes.com, 10 Aug. 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