noun, takes する, intransitive verb

  1. taking on a life of its own (of a rumor, etc.).
  2. walking by oneself, taking a walk by oneself.
  3. walking unaided, being able to walk without help.
  4. standing on one's own feet, being independent, taking care of oneself.

Variations

Pronunciation Kanji Kana Is Common
 
一人歩き ひとりあるき
 
 
 
 
ひとり歩き ひとりあるき
 
 
独り歩き ひとりあるき

Contained Kanji Breakdown

one, one radical (no.1)
イチ いっ ひと- (1st, N5)
person
ひと ニン ジン (1st, N5)
walk, counter for steps
ある.く ブ ホ (2nd, N4)
stop, halt
と.まる シ どめ (2nd, N4)
divining, fortune-telling, divination or katakana to radical (no. 25)
ボク うらな.う うらない (Kentei Pre-1)
few, little
すこ.し ショウ すく.ない (2nd, N4)
little, small
ショウ こ- ちい.さい (1st, N5)
feathered stick, barb radical (no. 6)
ケツ かぎ (Kentei 1)
eight, eight radical (no. 12)
ハチ や はっ (1st, N5)
katakana no radical (no. 4)
ヘツ えい よう (Kentei 1)