liberty

lib·er·ty

noun \ˈli-bər-tē\

plural lib·er·ties

Definition of LIBERTY

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

— at liberty

1

: free

2

: at leisure : unoccupied

Examples of LIBERTY

1. a nation that values liberty and democracy
2. soldiers willing to die in defense of liberty
3. They gave him the liberty to handle the problem himself.
4. hard-won liberties such as freedom of the press

Origin of LIBERTY

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

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to LIBERTY

Synonyms: alternative, discretion, druthers [dialect], election, choice, option, pick, preference, selection, volition, way

Antonyms: dependence (also dependance), heteronomy, subjection, unfreedom

Related Words: determination, free will, will; say, voice, vote; inclination, liking, partiality, penchant, predilection, proclivity, propensity, tendency; discernment, judgment (or judgement), perspicacity

Near Antonyms: coercion, duress, force; duty, obligation; Hobson's choice

see all synonyms and antonyms

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See Synonym Discussion at freedom

Other Government and Politics Terms

agent provocateur, agitprop, autarky, cabal, egalitarianism, federalism, hegemony, plenipotentiary, popular sovereignty, socialism