adj
independent
ihn-dih-PEHN-duhnt
adj
1
Not controlled or influenced by others; self-governing or self-sufficient.
"She started an independent consulting business after leaving the firm."
"The country became independent in 1962."
2
Not affiliated with a political party.
"He ran as an independent candidate in the local election."
noun
1
A person, business, or team not affiliated with a larger party, chain, or league.
"The bookstore is a small independent, not part of a chain."
How to Use Independent
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishStanding on your own — free from outside control, whether that's a country, a business, a voter, or a person.
Common pairings
independent contractor
independent study
run as an independent
independent of
Word Forms
more independent comparative, independents plural, Independents plural, most independent superlative
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She started an _____ consulting business after leaving the firm.
Etymology
From French indépendant, from in- ("not") + dependent.