WordGarden.ioindie
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /ˈɪndi/
US
- /ˈɪndi/
Meanings
Adjective
relating to indie rock, indie pop, or a non-mainstream music scene
produced or released independently of major commercial companies
Noun
(informal)an independent creative producer, such as an artist, label, or studio, or an independently produced work, such as a game or film
Beyond the definition
"Indie" originally meant "independent," and it still carries that core meaning. Think of music: an indie band is usually not signed to a major record label and is doing its own thing. But the word has grown beyond music. It now describes things that are made outside the mainstream and often have a creative, personal feel. You might hear about "indie films" (made outside big Hollywood studios), "indie bookstores" (locally owned, not part of a chain), or an "indie" style that feels original and different. It is often about choosing your own path.
The word "indie" is short for "independent," and its roots lie in the world of music. In the 1980s, it described record labels that operated outside the control of major corporations, giving artists more creative freedom. Bands like The Smiths and R.E.M. were early examples of "indie" musicians who built devoted followings without mainstream support.
However, "indie" has expanded far beyond music. Today, it is used to describe things that are made by, supported by, or connected with people working outside large companies or established systems. You will find "indie films" - movies made outside the Hollywood studio system, often with smaller budgets and more experimental themes. "Indie bookstores" are locally owned shops that offer carefully chosen books and more personal service, in contrast with big chain stores.
The term also carries a cultural connotation of being alternative, unconventional, or authentic. Someone might describe their fashion sense as "indie" if it's unique and doesn't follow current trends. It suggests a preference for originality over conformity.
So while "indie" started as a label for independent record companies, it now represents a broader spirit of self-reliance, creativity, and distance from the mainstream - a way of describing things that are made differently and value originality.
Examples
- 1
Music group
She plays guitar in an indie band from Manchester.
- 2
Film
We watched a low-budget indie film at the festival.
- 3
Games
A lot of players love indie games because they try unusual ideas.
- 4
Music career
After leaving the big label, the singer went indie and released her next album online.
- Phrasego indie
start working independently instead of with a large company
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Music taste
His taste in music has shifted from pop to indie over the past few years.
See also
Similar
- alternative
- non-mainstream
Shades of meaning
- underground
- DIY
- art-house
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- indie film
- indie music
- indie game
- indie label
Word family
Explore
- independent media
- subculture
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- indienounadjective