Definition

1. Proper Noun:
   • A formal proclamation asserting a nation's sovereignty: A "declaration of independence" is a formal statement, typically a written document, by which a people or political entity asserts its right to be self-governing and free from the rule of another power. It outlines the philosophical and legal justifications for this separation.

Usage

• Proper Noun:
  • The American Declaration of Independence was adopted by the Continental Congress in 1776.
  • Many nations have their own declaration of independence, marking their birth as sovereign states.

Advanced Usage

• Used as a common noun phrase: While often a proper noun referring to specific historical documents, the phrase can be used generically to describe any such proclamation.
  • The colony issued a declaration of independence, but it was not recognized by the imperial power.

Variants and Related Words

• Declare (verb): To announce formally or officially.
  • The region sought to declare its autonomy.
• Independence (noun): The state of being free from external control or support.
  • The country fought for its independence for a decade.

Synonyms

• Proclamation of sovereignty: A formal announcement of supreme authority.
• Assertion of autonomy: A declaration of self-rule.

Related Phrases

• To issue a declaration of independence: The act of formally producing and announcing such a document.
  • The revolutionary council moved to issue a declaration of independence.

Related Idioms

• A (modern) declaration of independence: Used metaphorically to describe a strong assertion of personal freedom or autonomy from control.
  • Quitting his corporate job was his personal declaration of independence.

Noun

1. the document recording the proclamation of the second Continental Congress (4 July 1776) asserting the independence of the Colonies from Great Britain