autonomy

American  

[aw-ton-uh-mee] / ɔˈtɒn ə mi /

noun

plural

autonomies

1. independence or freedom, as of the will or one's actions.

   the autonomy of the individual.

2. the condition of being autonomous; self-government or the right of self-government.

   The rebels demanded autonomy from Spain.

3. a self-governing community.

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autonomy British  

/ ɔːˈtɒnəmɪ /

noun

1. the right or state of self-government, esp when limited

2. a state, community, or individual possessing autonomy

3. freedom to determine one's own actions, behaviour, etc

4. philosophy

   1. the doctrine that the individual human will is or ought to be governed only by its own principles and laws See also categorical imperative

   2. the state in which one's actions are autonomous

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Other Word Forms

• autonomist noun

Etymology

Origin of autonomy

First recorded in 1615–25; from Greek autonomía “independence,” equivalent to autónom(os) autonomous + -ia -y ³

Example Sentences

If the Supreme Court’s decision reinforces state autonomy, a win in Washington could set a precedent for other jurisdictions, accelerating a cultural shift toward policies that treat women and families with respect.

From The Wall Street Journal

“It’s time to basically bring the Model S and X programs to an end with an honorable discharge because we’re really moving into a future that is based on autonomy,” Musk said on the call.

From Los Angeles Times

Virkkunen will in March unveil a major "tech sovereignty" package covering cloud, artificial intelligence and chips -- areas where the EU hopes to build greater autonomy.

From Barron's

But, it seems, that autonomy has its limits.

From Barron's

But, it seems, that autonomy has its limits.

From Barron's

Related Words

• freedom
• self-determination
• self-government
• self-rule
• sovereignty