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
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.
Meanwhile, analysts warn that Washington’s levies, as well as the expiry of a sub-Saharan Africa-US free trade deal, will push African nations even closer to Beijing’s sphere of influence. Jeronimo Gonzalez, semafor.com, 3 Oct. 2025 Conservatives celebrate the past and believe the benefits of immigration ended after World War I and the advantages of free trade ended after World War II. Richard Stengel, Time, 1 Oct. 2025 In such a scenario, Israel could lose its free trade agreement with the EU as well as its access to the $100 billion Horizon Europe research program, the EU’s flagship fund for research and innovation. Shira Efron, Foreign Affairs, 23 Sep. 2025 If the measures are approved by the European Union’s member states, the bloc’s free trade agreement with Israel will be partially suspended. CNN Money, 17 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for free trade

Word History

First Known Use

1766, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of free trade was in 1766

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Cite this Entry

“Free trade.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/free%20trade. Accessed 6 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

free trade

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

More from Merriam-Webster on free trade

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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