stand-alone
UK: ˈstænd ələʊn | US: ˈstænd əloʊn
adj. capable of operating independently without external support or connection
adj. (of software/hardware) not requiring integration with other systems
adj. (of a person/entity) self-sufficient or autonomous
The term "stand-alone" emerged in the mid-20th century, combining "stand" (from Old English standan, meaning to maintain an upright position) and "alone" (from Old English all āna, literally "all one"). The fusion metaphorically extends the idea of physical independence ("standing by oneself") to functional or operational autonomy. Initially used for technology (e.g., computers), it later broadened to describe any independent entity. The morphemes preserve their original meanings while creating a compound adjective with a specialized modern sense.
The software functions as a stand-alone application without requiring cloud access.
Her stand-alone novel gained acclaim despite being unrelated to her famous series.
The museum’s new wing operates as a stand-alone facility with separate ticketing.
This generator is designed for stand-alone use in remote areas.
His research stands alone as the most comprehensive study on the topic.