freestanding
UK: ˈfriːstændɪŋ | US: ˈfriːstændɪŋ
adj. not attached to or supported by another structure; independent
adj. (of a sculpture or object) standing on its own without a base or support
adj. (figuratively) self-sufficient or autonomous
The word "freestanding" combines "free" (Old English frēo, meaning "not constrained") and "stand" (Old English standan, meaning "to be upright"). The suffix "-ing" turns the verb into an adjective. Historically, it first described physical objects (like sculptures or buildings) that stood independently without external support. Over time, it gained figurative use to describe independence or self-sufficiency. The logic is straightforward: "free" implies lack of attachment, and "stand" implies stability, creating a vivid image of something standing alone.
The museum features a freestanding sculpture in the central courtyard.
The gazebo is freestanding, so it can be moved to another part of the garden.
She built a freestanding bookshelf to divide the room.
The company operates as a freestanding entity, separate from its parent corporation.
The artist prefers freestanding installations over wall-mounted pieces.