Entry Word: free

Function: adjective

Meaning: 1 not being under the rule or control of another <the 20th century saw many African countries become free after many years of European rule>

Synonyms autonomous, independent, self-governing, separate, sovereign

Related Words freeborn; delivered, emancipated, freed, liberated, manumitted, redeemed, released; unconquered, ungoverned, unruled, unsupervised; empowered, enfranchised; democratic, republican

Near Antonyms captive, conquered, enslaved, subdued, subjugated; inferior, subordinate, subservient

Antonyms dependent, subject, unfree

2 no longer burdened with something unpleasant or painful <after our son arrived home safely, we were grateful to be free from worry>

Synonyms disencumbered, quit, unburdened

Related Words delivered, freed, liberated, released; unhampered, unimpeded

3 not bound, confined, or detained by force <all of the animals in the game preserve are free to roam all over its vast area>

Synonyms footloose, loose, unbound, unconfined, unrestrained

Related Words escaped; uncaged, unchained, unfettered, unleashed; uncaught; unanchored, unbolted, undone, unfastened, untied; clear, disengaged, unengaged

Phrases at large, at liberty

Near Antonyms caught; caged, chained, leashed; anchored, bolted, fastened, shackled, tied

Antonyms bound, confined, restrained, unfree

4 not costing or charging anything <although the museum normally charges admission, on Wednesdays it is free to all>

Synonyms complimentary, gratis, gratuitous

Related Words nominal; discretionary, freewill, optional, voluntary; honorary, uncompensated, unpaid

Near Antonyms paid

5 allowing passage without obstruction <make sure the pass is free before you attempt the trip through the mountains this winter> — see open 1
6 giving or sharing in abundance and without hesitation <was very free with his money> — see generous 1
7 not being in a state of use, activity, or employment <this computer terminal is free if you need to use it> — see inactive 2
8 showing a lack of proper social reserve or modesty <she's a little too free with information about her social life> — see presumptuous 1