WordGarden.ioautonomous
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /ɔːtˈɒnəməs/
US
- /ɔˈtɑnəməs/
Meanings
Adjective
self-governing or administratively independent
able to act independently and make one's own choices
able to operate or navigate without direct human control
Beyond the definition
Imagine a robot that can explore Mars all on its own, making decisions without needing instructions from Earth every second – that's autonomous in action! The word comes from Greek roots meaning "self" and "law," hinting at something governed by its own rules.
Autonomous isn't just about robots though. A child becoming more autonomous is learning to make their own choices and take responsibility for them. Countries strive for economic autonomy, wanting to be self-reliant rather than dependent on others. You might even describe a particularly strong-willed friend as "fiercely autonomous." It's all about freedom from external control.
Autonomous describes something that is self-governing, independent, and not controlled by others. It implies the ability to operate or function without external influence, whether it's a person, machine, organization, or even a region.
You often hear "autonomous" used in technology: autonomous vehicles are self-driving cars, and autonomous drones can fly and perform tasks on their own. But its meaning extends far beyond tech. A university might grant students academic autonomy, allowing them to choose their courses and pursue their interests freely.
Historically, the concept of autonomy has been central to political thought. Regions or communities may seek political autonomy – a degree of self-rule within a larger nation. A person who is highly autonomous is independent in thought and action, making decisions based on their own values and beliefs rather than being swayed by others.
It's important to note that "autonomous" doesn't necessarily mean completely isolated. Something can be autonomous while still interacting with its environment or collaborating with others – it just means it retains control over its own actions and choices.
So, whether you're talking about robots exploring space, students charting their own academic paths, or individuals living life on their own terms, "autonomous" signifies a powerful state of self-governance and independence.
Examples
- 1
Transport
The airport plans to introduce autonomous shuttle buses next year.
- 2
Workplace freedom
In this job, you'll be quite autonomous, so no one checks every small decision.
- 3
Institutional independence
The research center is funded by the university but runs as an autonomous unit.
- 4
Regional government
After the reform, the province gained an autonomous regional government.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Study skills
The course helps teenagers become more autonomous learners.
- 6
Career choices
By the end of the year, she felt confident enough to make autonomous decisions about her career.
See also
Similar
- independent
- self-governing
- self-directed
Shades of meaning
- self-sufficient
- self-driving
- unsupervised
Contrast
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- autonomous vehicle
- autonomous region
- autonomous system
- autonomous decision-making
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- autonomousadjective