independence

noun

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

Synonyms of independence

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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.
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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.
Often, women’s growing independence is cited as the root of birth rate free-falls. — Emma Hinchliffe, Fortune, 20 July 2026 Originally associated with national AI independence, sovereign AI is rapidly becoming a corporate concept. — Vivian Toh, Forbes.com, 20 July 2026 Some attendees, including Occelus, gathered at the same corner hours earlier for a demonstration supporting Puerto Rican independence — organized by the grassroots group Flori Boris. — Sara-James Ranta, The Orlando Sentinel, 19 July 2026 Introduced during India’s struggle for independence, the logo also came to symbolize the ideals of self-reliance and social reform championed by Gandhi. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 17 July 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

Phrases Containing independence

Rhymes for independence

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Browse Nearby Words

independable
independence
Independence
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Cite this Entry

“Independence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/independence. Accessed 22 Jul. 2026.

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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

More from Merriam-Webster on independence

Nglish: Translation of independence for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about independence

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