Definitions

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.

The goal, he says, is to supplant independent academic research with “an entire system of pseudoscience and grift.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 11, 2026

A largely unknown second act came as he served as lead independent director for JPMorgan Chase, a post in which he presided over investigations and advised Chief Executive Jamie Dimon through the financial crisis.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 10, 2026

Capt Sabharwal's father later approached India's Supreme Court, seeking an independent investigation into all possible causes of the crash.

From BBC • Jun. 10, 2026

Proton VPN and NordVPN have undergone independent audits to confirm their privacy claims.

From Salon • Jun. 10, 2026

“Massachusetts Board of Education bans disproportionate punishment. But it still happens. Even in private, independent schools like Middlefield Prep.”

From "Black Brother, Black Brother" by Jewell Parker Rhodes

Vocabulary lists containing independent

List 1

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