freedom of religion

noun phrase

: the right to choose what religion to follow and to worship without interference

Examples of freedom of religion in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The most common reading of the establishment clause is that freedom of religion prohibits the installation of a state religion or religious tests to hold state office. —Samuel Perry, The Conversation, 6 Apr. 2026

America is at its best when guided by enduring principles such as equal opportunity, freedom of speech, the rule of law, individual liberty, national sovereignty, merit, freedom of religion, and representative government. —Arkansas Online, 23 Mar. 2026

The lawsuit called the restrictions in place at Whipple a violation of both the constitutional freedom of religion of clergy who feel compelled by their faith to serve detainees and the 1993 Religious Freedom Restoration Act. —ABC News, 20 Mar. 2026

In November Bangladesh adopted a constitution that promoted secularism, freedom of religion, and a parliamentary system. —Andrew Pereira, Encyclopedia Britannica, 11 Mar. 2026

Rhymes for freedom of religion

• irreligion
• pigeon

Legal Definition

freedom of religion

freedom of re·​li·​gion

: the right especially as guaranteed under the free exercise clause of the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution to practice one's religion or exercise one's beliefs without intervention by the government and to be free of the exercise of authority by a church through the government see also free exercise clause

Note: The freedom of religion as guaranteed by the First Amendment can be overcome by a showing by the government of a compelling state interest. On this basis, practices used in some religions, such as bigamy, are prohibited despite the First Amendment guarantee.