1
: existing or acting separately from other things or people : independent
autonomous [=distinct, unrelated] historical events
an autonomous [=separate] women's studies program
Many disabled children become autonomous [=self-sufficient] adults.
2
: having the power or right to govern itself
an autonomous region/republic/territory
Cite this Entry
“Autonomous.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/autonomous. Accessed 29 Oct. 2026.
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