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.
Bringing these creative brands together, giving producers access to a broader pool of talent, IP and resources, while preserving their independence is what differentiates Mediawan. — Melanie Goodfellow, Deadline, 13 Oct. 2026 The higher the required SIL, the greater the required risk reduction and the more demanding the design, verification and independence of the safety function. — Gregory Shahnovsky, Forbes.com, 13 Oct. 2026 In Alaska, even though voters have almost always picked the Republican presidential nominee, their streak of independence has allowed independents and Democratic nominees to win statewide races. — Maham Javaid, NPR, 13 Oct. 2026 One Israeli journalist compared Segal’s role in Israel to that of Fox News host Bret Baier, who maintains journalistic independence despite working for a right-wing platform. — Ben Smith, semafor.com, 12 Oct. 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 14 Oct. 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

More from Merriam-Webster on independence

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about independence

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