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.
With free rein to explore any topic of interest, Adhara took the opportunity to learn more about the striking Swinhoe’s White-eye (Zosterops simplex). News Release, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 June 2026 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 In April 2023, Ptak told Tatler that Meghan gave her free rein of the cake design. Nicole Briese, PEOPLE, 19 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

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Cite this Entry

“Free rein.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/free%20rein. Accessed 13 Jun. 2026.

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