noun
freedom
The ability to act or choose without unwanted restraint.
Working from home gives her freedom to set her schedule.
Etymology
The state-forming ending turns free into the condition of being free. It names the absence of unwanted control that allows action or choice.
More examples
- Teenagers often want more freedom than their parents allow.
- The teacher gives students freedom to choose their own topics.
- The new law protects basic freedoms, including the right to protest.
Forms
freedom · freedoms
free adjective — Able to act or choose without restraint.
freely adverb — Without being controlled or held back.
Similar words
- liberty
- Often emphasizes personal rights protected from government interference.
- autonomy
- Emphasizes making your own decisions without outside control.
- independence
- Emphasizes not relying on others for support or direction.