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

The provisions have support from the Association of Inspectors General, a nonpartisan group representing thousands of inspector general staff across nearly all 50 states, which called them standard for OIG independence and adequate resources. — Julie Watts, CBS News, 18 Aug. 2026

From 1792 to 1799, Clarence House was a private Catholic school, and one of its students was Bernardo O’Higgins, who would go on to lead Chile’s fight for independence and become the country’s first head of government. — Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 17 Aug. 2026

Greenhaw echoed Wirt’s insights on a broader societal shift of how children are in highly structured environments with less free play and independence. — Lina Ruiz, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 17 Aug. 2026

In 1975, the year that Papua New Guinea gained independence from Australia, Luwi joined the second class of Fore children to attend a new government school in Purosa, a former colonial aid post, a day’s walk from his village. — Rachel Aviv, New Yorker, 17 Aug. 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 population 116,830