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

His administration says the arch would commemorate 250 years of American independence. — Donald Trump, CBS News, 11 Nov. 2026

There always lingers the question of statehood, which exists alongside the island’s long-standing and active independence movement. — Von Diaz, Bon Appetit Magazine, 10 Nov. 2026

Marxist rule In the years after independence, significant fissures—both ideological and practical—were opening in South Yemen within the ruling NLF and its successor, the Yemen Socialist Party (YSP). — Manfred W. Wenner All, Encyclopedia Britannica, 10 Nov. 2026

The clause was originally created by the British as a temporary measure to prevent legal vacuums as ex-colonies transitioned to independence, but some ex-colonies including Trinidad and Tobago continue to implement them. — Michael Rios, CNN Money, 10 Nov. 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