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.
Lewis admitted that the experience has impacted not only her independence but her confidence as well. — Vanessa Etienne, PEOPLE, 31 Aug. 2026 For generations of American teenagers, turning 16 and getting a driver’s license has been a rite of passage—and a first taste of independence. — Preston Fore, Fortune, 31 Aug. 2026 Pearce was celebrating five years of Opry membership and would return later to channel many aspects of Dolly, from her humor and fierce independence to her Appalachian roots. — Chris Parton, USA Today, 30 Aug. 2026 Recovery funding has also been tied to broader judicial-independence reforms. — Dominique Soguel, Christian Science Monitor, 30 Aug. 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 1 Sep. 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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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