autonomy

[aw-ton-uh-mee]

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.

autonomy

/ 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

Other Word Forms

• autonomist noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of autonomy¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of autonomy¹

C17: from Greek autonomia freedom to live by one's own laws; see _autonomous

Example Sentences

The OBR got an exemption in 2013 from using a more secure government publishing platform for independent authorities in order to help with its autonomy.

Read more on BBC

Some have called for more autonomy, while others abroad advocate independence for the region.

Read more on Barron's

In these cases, the tradeoffs of using a VPN, such as slower speeds, costs or setup complexity, are minor compared to the protection and autonomy VPNs provide.

Read more on Salon

“Eternity” understands the desperation for a modicum of autonomy in this world, yet cleverly reminds viewers that having a choice doesn’t necessarily make life any easier.

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"We are proud to support the rapid growth of the civil and military aviation markets in the country as well as the strategic autonomy of the country," he added.

Read more on Barron's

Related Words

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