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.

An independent FirstNet Authority was created by Congress within the Commerce Department’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration to manage the public-private partnership.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 16, 2026

Cosby Flatiron Books: Pine & Cedar: 352 pages, $29 If you buy books linked on our site, The Times may earn a commission from Bookshop.org, whose fees support independent bookstores.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 16, 2026

Health Secretary Wes Streeting, who announced an independent investigation into maternity care at University Hospitals Sussex NHS Trust last year, said Donna Ockenden would head the inquiry.

From BBC • Apr. 15, 2026

“We’re independent on the policy area, but we’re accountable in Congress.”

From Barron's • Apr. 15, 2026

And then there was the time he challenged us to only go to movie theaters that showed independent films.

From "Watch Us Rise" by Renée Watson and Ellen Hagan

Vocabulary lists containing independent

List 1

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Canada - Introductory

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Pacific Islands - Introductory

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!