self-governance

noun

self-gov·​er·​nance ˌself-ˈgə-vər-nən(t)s 

: self-government sense 2

Synonyms of self-governance

• autonomy
• sovereignty
• independence
• freedom

Examples of self-governance in a Sentence

despite pessimistic predictions, self-governance has worked out well for the former colony

Recent Examples on the Web

The decision means tight end Dae’Quan Wright and defensive end Zxavian Harris will not suit up for the Tigers this fall after weeks of legal drama, the furthest test yet of a conference attempting some self-governance. — Chris Vannini, New York Times, 9 Sep. 2026

In 2021,residents voted to adopt a model of self-governance, an option available to Indigenous communities in the state. — Kate Linthicum, Los Angeles Times, 6 Sep. 2026

Belknap also points to other existential challenges to American self-governance, such as the gutting of the Voting Rights Act and the rush toward partisan gerrymandering that seeks to cement one-party control in different states. — Nick Coltrain, Denver Post, 22 Aug. 2026

During Kenya’s transition to self-governance from colonial rule, the extensive network of Christian schools and medical institutions established by churches provided education and health care. — Stephanie Triplettall, Encyclopedia Britannica, 7 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1848, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for self-governance

• governance