autonomy
noun
au·ton·o·my
| \ ȯ-ˈtä-nə-mē
\
\
plural autonomies
Definition of autonomy
1
: the quality or state of being self-governing
especially
: the right of self-government
The territory was granted autonomy.
2
: self-directing freedom and especially moral independence
personal autonomy
3
: a self-governing state