independence/͵IndIˋpɛndəns; ˌIndəˈpendəns or ˌIndIˈpendəns/n [U]1 political freedom from control by another country 独立〔指政治上不受另一国控制〕: +from Nigeria gained independence from Britain in 1960. 尼日利亚于 1960 年脱离英国﹐获得独立。the American declaration of independence 美国宣布独立2 the freedom and ability to make your own decisions in life, without having to ask other people for permission, help, or money〔个人生活的〕独立﹐自主: Many old people want to maintain their independence. 许多老年人想要保持独立。Having a job gives you financial independence . 有工作就可以让人经济独立。