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independence

in·de·pend·ence

independence

 
 
pronunciation:
In dih pen dns
features:
Word Parts
part of speech: noun
definition 1: the state or condition of being independent.
I celebrate my country's independence on July fourth.
synonyms:
freedom, self-sufficiency
similar words:
individuality, liberty
definition 2: freedom from outside control.
The American Revolution was fought for independence from England.
synonyms:
liberty
similar words:
separation
Word Parts  About this feature
The word independence contains the following parts:
de- Latin prefix that means from; away from; down from; reverse, negate.
synonyms:
dis-, un-
 
in-2 Latin prefix that means not, without
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The prefix in-2 occurs in Latin loanwords and attaches to Latinate bases. The bases of most words prefixed with in-2 are independent adjectives (inadvertent, incognizant), although the base adjective may no longer be in widespread use (as with incessant ). Exceptions include iniquitous and indignant . -in2 has multiple forms, as the 'n' sound in in-2 assimilates to the initial sound of the base to which it is attached. See the assimilated forms ig-, il-2, im-2, and ir-2.
pend, pens Latin root that means hang; weigh; spend
-ance, -ence, -ency, -ancy Latin noun-forming suffix that means state, quality, or act of
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The suffix group -ance , -ence , -ency , -ancy attaches to verbs and Latin verb stems to create nouns. The suffix -ance is usually attached to whole English words, whereas -ence is usually attached to roots: compare eloquence and acceptance . For most nouns ending in -ance , -ence , -ency , -ancy , there is a correponsponding adjective form ending in -ant, -ent.