free trade

noun

: trade based on the unrestricted international exchange of goods with tariffs used only as a source of revenue

Examples of free trade in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

But the reality failed to live up to the hype as Britain struggled to adjust to life without unfettered access to the 27-nation free trade bloc and its market of 450 million people. — Danica Kirka, Fortune, 22 June 2026

Over the past 50 years, summits have led to promotion of free trade, cooperation in combating infectious diseases and a concerted, effective counter to authoritarianism around the world. — The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 16 June 2026

Whereas in the ebullient days of the 1850s, the ideas that had the upper hand were optimistic, and free trade and global integration. — David Frum, The Atlantic, 10 June 2026

The escalating rhetoric comes at a critical moment for the two countries, which next month will embark on a review of their free trade agreement with Canada. — Kate Linthicum, Los Angeles Times, 3 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1766, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for free trade

• afraid
• allayed
• arcade
• arrayed
• assayed
• barmaid
• betrayed
• blockade
• bridesmaid
• brigade
• brocade
• buffeted

Kids Definition

free trade

noun

: trade between nations without restrictions (as high taxes on imports)