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Definition of autonomy
autonomy
/ɔːˈtɑːnəmi/
au · ton · o · my
Adverb:autonomously
•Plural:autonomies
•Adjective:autonomous
autonomy Lexical Profile
CEFR
C1
Grade
10
Tier
2
Usage
Top 5k
Syllables
4
autonomy Game Scores & Validity
Scrabble US
Scrabble UK
WWF
Wordle Guess
• noun
1
The right or condition of self-government, especially in a particular sphere, state, or organization.
Example
"The provincial legislature campaigned for greater political autonomy from the central government."
2
Freedom from external control or influence; personal independence and the capacity to make one's own decisions.
Example
"The company grants its engineers considerable autonomy in choosing which research projects to pursue."
Synonyms
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View all antonyms for autonomy• Rhymes for autonomy
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Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the early 17th century from Ancient Greek autonomia ('independence, living by one's own laws'), derived from autonomos, a compound of autos ('self') and nomos ('law').
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Autonomy. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/autonomy