C2adjectiveformalpoliticstechnology
US/ɑːˈtɑː.nə.məs/
UK/ɔːˈtɒn.ə.məs/
able to govern or control itself; also able to work by itself without a person controlling it
In context
Greenland is an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark.
Universities want to become more autonomous in setting their own fees.
Autonomous cars are already being tested on some city roads.
Words that go with autonomous
adjective + noun
- autonomous regionThe autonomous region has its own parliament and police.
- autonomous vehicleWho is responsible when an autonomous vehicle crashes?
- autonomous bodyThe election commission is an autonomous body.
- autonomous weaponsMany scientists call for a ban on autonomous weapons.
adverb + adjective
- fully autonomousFully autonomous drones raise difficult legal questions.
- largely autonomousLocal rulers were largely autonomous under the empire.