autonomy

[ aw-ton-uh-mee ]

noun

, plural au·ton·o·mies.

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

Derived Forms

• auˈtonomist, noun

Other Words From

• au·tono·mist 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

“We need a new approach to our digital interactions that recognizes the fundamental rights of individuals to safeguard their bodily data, an issue that speaks directly to human autonomy and dignity,” Keserű said.

From Los Angeles Times

The study also highlights the importance of egalitarianism, respect for individual autonomy and extensive sharing in shaping how cultural knowledge is passed down among hunter gatherers.

From Science Daily

Beijing and Hong Kong’s governments argue that the law is necessary to maintain stability and deny it has weakened autonomy.

From BBC

There is a generational component to that, along with the familiar trends of personal economics meaning that people have greater autonomy to move away from the accepted norms in their communities.

From BBC

“Is the shared value between those voters autonomy, and self-determination, which is inherently a reproductive justice value?”

From Salon

Related Words

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