Main Entry: lib·er·ty

Pronunciation: \ˈli-bər-tē\

Function: noun

Inflected Form(s): plural lib·er·ties

Etymology: Middle English, from Anglo-French liberté, from Latin libertat-, libertas, from liber free — more at liberal

Date: 14th century

1 : the quality or state of being free: a : the power to do as one pleases b : freedom from physical restraint c : freedom from arbitrary or despotic control d : the positive enjoyment of various social, political, or economic rights and privileges e : the power of choice
2 a : a right or immunity enjoyed by prescription or by grant : privilege b : permission especially to go freely within specified limits
3 : an action going beyond normal limits: as a : a breach of etiquette or propriety : familiarity b : risk, chance <took foolish liberties with his health> c : a violation of rules or a deviation from standard practice d : a distortion of fact
4 : a short authorized absence from naval duty usually for less than 48 hours

synonyms see freedom

— at liberty 1 : free
2 : at leisure : unoccupied