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
1
Not held back by chains or shackles; physically free.
"The prisoner stood unfettered for the first time in years."
2
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 notesIn plain EnglishCompletely free from restriction or control.
Common pairings
unfettered access
unfettered freedom
unfettered by rules
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more unfettered
- Superlative
- most unfettered
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The prisoner stood _____ for the first time in years.
Etymology
From un- + fettered — a fetter was originally a chain put around the ankles.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for unfettered
See all rhymes for unfettered →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.
