free rein

noun

: unrestricted liberty of action or decision
The studio gave the director free rein over the movie.

Examples of free rein in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The capybara swim happened at Wichabai Ranch, where a rewilding conservation program has given a small group of them a lake and, apparently, free rein over the guests. Chantelle Kincy, Travel + Leisure, 30 May 2026 Other than that constraint, the chefs had free rein over their burgers. Sean Timberlake, Sacbee.com, 20 May 2026 Kyle Anderson could help with playmaking and defense, but his shooting shortcomings would give Wembanyama free rein. Jon Krawczynski, New York Times, 13 May 2026 And the best part about this entire process is how Peloton gave me free rein to develop the line. Jean E. Palmieri, Footwear News, 12 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for free rein

Word History

First Known Use

1635, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of free rein was in 1635

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Free rein.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/free%20rein. Accessed 5 Jun. 2026.

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