freedom
FREE-duhm
Freedom (noun) means the state of being free from control, restriction, or oppression. Example: “The prisoners were overjoyed to taste freedom after so many years behind bars.”
noun
1
The state of being free from control, restriction, or oppression.
"The prisoners were overjoyed to taste freedom after so many years behind bars."
"The new constitution guaranteed freedom of speech and religion."
"She finally felt a sense of freedom after paying off her debts."
2
The right or ability to act, move, or speak without unreasonable restraint.
"Students at the school have the freedom to choose their own projects."
"Our manager gives us the freedom to say what we really think."
"Working from home gives him more freedom over his schedule."
How to use freedom
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishNot being controlled or restricted; the ability to choose or act as you wish.
Common pairings
freedom of speech
freedom of choice
gain freedom
personal freedom
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Word forms
- Plural
- freedoms
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The prisoners were overjoyed to taste _____ after so many years behind bars.
Etymology
From Old English freodom, built from "free" plus the suffix "-dom" (as in "kingdom"), literally meaning "the condition of being free."
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for freedom
See all rhymes for freedom →Frequently asked questions
What does “freedom” mean?
The word “freedom” means the state of being free from control, restriction, or oppression. In plain terms, not being controlled or restricted; the ability to choose or act as you wish.
How do you pronounce “freedom”?
“Freedom” is pronounced FREE-duhm (/ˈfɹi.dəm/ in IPA).
How do you use “freedom” in a sentence?
Here is “freedom” used in a sentence: “The new constitution guaranteed freedom of speech and religion.”
What is another word for “freedom”?
Words with a similar meaning to “freedom” include liberty, license and exemption.
What is the opposite of “freedom”?
The opposite of “freedom” — its antonyms — are bondage, constraint, imprisonment, slavery and unfreedom.
What part of speech is “freedom”?
“Freedom” is a noun.
Where does the word “freedom” come from?
The word “freedom” comes from Old English. From Old English freodom, built from "free" plus the suffix "-dom" (as in "kingdom"), literally meaning "the condition of being free.".
Is “freedom” a common word?
“Freedom” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
What is the difference between freedom and liberty?
The two are close and often interchangeable. "Freedom" is the broader, more personal word for being unrestricted in general. "Liberty" carries a more formal, political and legal tone, usually about specific rights a society grants and protects. You feel freedom; you are granted liberties. In practice, context and tradition decide which word fits better.
What are the types of freedom?
Common forms include freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom of the press, freedom of movement, and freedom of assembly. Broader distinctions separate political, personal, and economic freedom. Philosophers also contrast "freedom from" restrictions with "freedom to" act — negative and positive liberty. All describe an absence of undue control.
Why is freedom important?
Freedom lets people make their own choices, express beliefs, and shape their lives without unjust interference. It underpins human dignity, democracy, and creativity, and is widely regarded as a basic human right. Without it, individuals cannot fully develop or hold power to account. Most societies treat freedom as central to a fair and functioning life.
What is the opposite of freedom?
The clearest opposites are "oppression," "captivity," and "slavery," all describing life under harsh external control. Milder antonyms include "restriction," "confinement," and "constraint." Which fits depends on degree — from everyday limits on what you can do, up to the total loss of liberty found in imprisonment or tyranny.
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