independence

noun

in·​de·​pen·​dence ˌin-də-ˈpen-dən(t)s How to pronounce independence (audio)
Synonyms of independencenext
1
: the quality or state of being independent
2
archaic : competence sense 2

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Meanwhile, a criminal investigation into Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell has created worries about the Fed's independence, and whether it might be politically influenced. Sawdah Bhaimiya, CNBC, 16 Jan. 2026 In some countries, their recent liberation from imperial rule (The Philippines, Iran, Morocco, among others), tinged the era with eagerness for a future defined by independence. Diana Arterian, Literary Hub, 15 Jan. 2026 The inquiry has alarmed economists and lawmakers in both parties, who warn that even the existence of a DOJ investigation could undermine the Fed’s independence, spook lenders, and keep mortgage rates elevated. Samantha-Jo Roth, The Washington Examiner, 15 Jan. 2026 The Athletic maintains full editorial independence. Steven Louis Goldstein, New York Times, 15 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for independence

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of independence was in 1606

Browse Nearby Words

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Cite this Entry

“Independence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/independence. Accessed 17 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

independence

noun
in·​de·​pen·​dence ˌin-də-ˈpen-dən(t)s How to pronounce independence (audio)
: 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 How to pronounce Independence (audio)
city in western Missouri east of Kansas City population 116,830

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