Independent

/ˌɪndɪˈpɛndənt/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A person or entity that is not affiliated with a political party or organization.

The independent ran a strong campaign despite not having party support.

adjective

Not reliant on or controlled by others; self-sufficient.

She values her independent lifestyle and enjoys living on her own.

Not influenced or determined by something else; free from outside control.

The independent committee made decisions without any external pressure.

Not connected to or affiliated with a larger organization; separate.

He works for an independent film company that focuses on documentaries.

Having the ability to think or act freely.

An independent thinker does not blindly follow popular opinion.

From Latin 'independens', meaning 'not hanging from, not dependent'.

independent study

A self-directed study that is not governed by a curriculum.

independent contractor

A person contracted to perform work for another entity but is not an employee.

independent variable

A variable whose variation does not depend on that of another.

depend

To rely on; to be contingent upon.

independence

The state of being independent.

dependency

The state of relying on or being controlled by someone or something else.

Going solo

She's been going solo ever since she moved out.

Flying solo

He's flying solo this weekend.