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

• 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 vote to approve Miran’s nomination passed 48-47, along party lines, with Democrats expressing concern about the appointment impacting the central bank’s independence. —Siladitya Ray, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2025

The Athletic maintains full editorial independence. —Data Skrive, New York Times, 15 Sep. 2025

This period of independence was short-lived. —Anahid Nersessian, New Yorker, 15 Sep. 2025

The El Grito de Independencia commemorates the speech that marks the beginning of the Mexican independence movement. —Jemma Stephenson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1640, 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