Here are some ways the word is used:
* Autonomous Region: A region within a country that has a degree of self-government.
* Autonomous Vehicle: A vehicle that can drive itself without human intervention.
* Autonomous Agent: A software program or artificial intelligence that can act independently.
* Autonomous Individual: A person who makes their own decisions and is not influenced by others.
In essence, "autonomous" implies independence, self-reliance, and freedom from external control.