independent

[in-di-pen-duhnt] / ˌɪn dɪˈpɛn dənt /

ADJECTIVE

liberated, free

Synonyms

STRONGEST

autonomous nonpartisan self-reliant self-sufficient separate sovereign

STRONG

absolute

WEAK

autarchic autarchical freewheeling individualistic nonaligned on one's own self-contained self-determining self-governing self-ruling self-supporting separated unaided unallied unconnected unconstrained uncontrolled unregimented

Antonyms

WEAK

dependent subordinate subservient

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Ken Klippenstein, independent journalist covering national security and U.S. politics.

From Slate • Jun. 4, 2026

"As a result he falls into a gap where he is considered too able for some services yet not independent enough to cope without substantial support."

From BBC • Jun. 3, 2026

The full data after excluding the co-founders’ votes will provide a more accurate picture of independent shareholders’ views, Acosta said.

From Barron's • Jun. 3, 2026

There, the court held that the FAA’s exemption from arbitration for “contracts of employment” covered not only employees but also independent contractors.

From Slate • Jun. 3, 2026

“No, sir! I am an independent woman now.”

From "Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Brontë

Vocabulary lists containing independent

List 1

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