VocabDictionary

autonomous

/ɔːˈtɒn.ə.məs/advanced Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.adjective

Having the freedom to govern itself or control its own affairs.

Example Sentences:
  • The region was granted autonomous status by the central government.
  • An autonomous institution has the independence to set its own academic curriculum.
2.adjective

Acting independently or having the freedom to do so without external control.

Example Sentences:
  • Engineers are developing fully autonomous vehicles that can drive without human intervention.
  • The robotic probe operates as an autonomous unit on the surface of Mars.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “autonomous”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Greek words 'autos' meaning 'self' and 'nomos' meaning 'law' or 'rule'. Combined, 'autonomos' originally described a self-governing city-state that made its own laws rather than being subject to external rulers.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'auto' (self) plus 'nomos' (law) — someone or something that makes its own laws and rules.

Frequently Asked Questions About “autonomous

1. What is the meaning of “autonomous” in English?

In English, autonomous (adjective) is defined as: “Having the freedom to govern itself or control its own affairs.”.

2. How do you use “autonomous” in a sentence?

The region was granted autonomous status by the central government.

3. What are English synonyms of “autonomous”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “autonomous”?

Derived from the Greek words 'autos' meaning 'self' and 'nomos' meaning 'law' or 'rule'. Combined, 'autonomos' originally described a self-governing city-state that made its own laws rather than being subject to external rulers.