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.
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Alberta will hold a vote this fall on whether to hold a referendum on provincial independence. — ABC News, 6 July 2026 Bunch agreed to that review, while steadfastly maintaining the museum network’s independence. — Harrison Jacobs, ARTnews.com, 6 July 2026 Their independence is essential to the credibility and integrity of football, and this must always be respected. — Kevin Baxter, Los Angeles Times, 6 July 2026 The country, once split between British and French colonization, gained independence in 1960. — Madison E. Goldberg, PEOPLE, 7 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 7 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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