autonomous

UK: ɔːˈtɒnəməs | US: ɔːˈtɑːnəməs

Definition

  1. adj. having the freedom to govern itself or control its own affairs

  2. adj. (of a machine or system) capable of operating independently without human intervention

  3. adj. (biology) acting or functioning independently

Structure
auto <self, from Greek *autos*>nom <law or custom, from Greek *nomos*>ous <adjective suffix, from Latin *-osus*>
Etymology

The word "autonomous" originates from Greek autonomos, combining auto- (self) and -nomos (law). It originally described a city-state or region that governed itself under its own laws. Over time, the term expanded to include machines and biological systems capable of independent operation. The suffix -ous (from Latin) was added to form the adjective, reinforcing the idea of possessing a quality (here, self-governance).

Examples

  1. The region became autonomous after years of political struggle.

  2. Autonomous vehicles are revolutionizing the transportation industry.

  3. The robot is designed to be fully autonomous in hazardous environments.

  4. In biology, the nervous system has both voluntary and autonomous functions.

  5. The university's research division operates as an autonomous unit.