Definify.com
Webster 1913 Edition
Independence
Inˊde-pend′ence
,Noun.
[Cf. F.
indépendance
.] 1.
The state or quality of being independent; freedom from dependence; exemption from reliance on, or control by, others; self-subsistence or maintenance; direction of one’s own affairs without interference.
Let fortune do her worst, . . . as long as she never makes us lose our honesty and our
independence
. Pope.
2.
Sufficient means for a comfortable livelihood.
Declaration of Independence
(Amer. Hist.)
, the declaration of the Congress of the Thirteen United States of America, on the 4th of July, 1776, by which they formally declared that these colonies were free and independent States, not subject to the government of Great Britain.
Webster 1828 Edition
Independence
INDEPEND'ENCE
,Noun.
1.
A state of being not dependent; complete exemption from control, or the power of others; as the independence of the Supreme Being.2.
A state in which a person does not rely on others for subsistence; ability to support one's self.3.
A state of mind in which a person acts without bias or influence from others; exemption from undue influence; self-direction. Independence of mind is an important qualification in a judge.Declaration of Independence,the solemn declaration of the Congress of the United States of America, on the 4th of July 1766, by which they formally renounced their subjection to the government of Great Britain.