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

"We could see how Staten Island would do financially, remaining part of New York City -- or some sort of a hybrid approach, where maybe we have greater autonomy," he said.

From Barron's

“It’s really about an alternative experience to a traditional proscenium show, giving the audience autonomy to explore,” Herstand says.

From Los Angeles Times

A senate-like body ruled and gave generals autonomy but little margin for error.

From The Wall Street Journal

Would Branch Rickey come back to life to run the Pittsburgh Pirates, with autonomy and resources from ownership?

From Los Angeles Times

"Everyone has the right to feel safe - and everyone has the right to emotional and physical autonomy," Carthy said.

From BBC

Related Words

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