adj

unfettered

uhn-FEH-tuhd

Unfettered (adj) means not held back by chains or shackles; physically free. Example: “The prisoner stood unfettered for the first time in years.”

adj

Not held back by chains or shackles; physically free.

"The prisoner stood unfettered for the first time in years."

Not restricted by rules, control, or limits.

"The new CEO was given unfettered access to every department."

"Unfettered free speech is a founding principle of the platform."

How to use unfettered

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishCompletely free from restriction or control.

Common pairings

unfettered access unfettered freedom unfettered by rules

Word forms

more unfettered comparative, most unfettered superlative

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The prisoner stood _____ for the first time in years.

Etymology

From un- + fettered — a fetter was originally a chain put around the ankles.

Rhymes for unfettered

entered tapered covered ordered altered powered layered watered revered angered severed catered

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Frequently asked questions

What does “unfettered” mean?

The word “unfettered” means not held back by chains or shackles; physically free. In plain terms, completely free from restriction or control.

How do you pronounce “unfettered”?

“Unfettered” is pronounced uhn-FEH-tuhd (/ˈʌnˈfɛtɚd/ in IPA).

How do you use “unfettered” in a sentence?

Here is “unfettered” used in a sentence: “The prisoner stood unfettered for the first time in years.”

What part of speech is “unfettered”?

“Unfettered” is an adjective.

How many meanings does “unfettered” have?

“Unfettered” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: not held back by chains or shackles; physically free.