liberation

noun

lib·​er·​a·​tion ˌli-bə-ˈrā-shən 

1

: the act of liberating : the state of being liberated

2

: a movement seeking equal rights and status for a group

women's liberation

liberationist

ˌli-bə-ˈrā-sh(ə-)nist 

noun

Synonyms

• emancipation
• enfranchisement
• freeing
• manumission

Examples of liberation in a Sentence

The liberation of the city took weeks.

the liberation of the slaves was one of the key results of the Civil War

Recent Examples on the Web

Alfie’s liberation doesn’t go well for him, but his public disgrace can’t undo the goodwill he’s established through his championing of art. —Charles McNulty, Los Angeles Times, 21 May 2025

Following his commission and completing additional training, he was stationed in Hawaii; Okinawa, Japan; and served in the Gulf War and liberation of Kuwait. —Elizabeth Marie Himchak, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 May 2025

Her unflinching images of World War II–which were the focus of the new film LEE starring Kate Winslet at Miller–from the liberation of Buchenwald to her unforgettable self-portrait in Hitler’s bathtub, are a timely reminder of photography’s role in bearing witness. —Lee Sharrock, Forbes.com, 16 May 2025

Our liberation is global, and so is our responsibility. —Daniel Anthony, Them., 15 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing liberation

• liberation theology

Rhymes for liberation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

Kids Definition

liberation

noun

lib·​er·​a·​tion ˌlib-ə-ˈrā-shən 

1

: the act of liberating : the state of being liberated

2

: a movement seeking equal rights for a group