n. [ AS. freódōm; freófree + -dom. See Free, and -dom. ] 1. The state of being free; exemption from the power and control of another; liberty; independence. [ 1913 Webster ] Made captive, yet deserving freedom more. Milton. [ 1913 Webster ] 2. Privileges; franchises; immunities. [ 1913 Webster ] Your charter and your caty's freedom. Shak. [ 1913 Webster ] 3. Exemption from necessity, in choise and action; as, the freedom of the will. [ 1913 Webster ] 4. Ease; facility; as, he speaks or acts with freedom. [ 1913 Webster ] 5. Frankness; openness; unreservedness. [ 1913 Webster ] I emboldened spake and freedom used. Milton. [ 1913 Webster ] 6. Improper familiarity; violation of the rules of decorum; license. [ 1913 Webster ] 7. Generosity; liberality. [ Obs. ] Chaucer. [ 1913 Webster ] Freedom fine, a sum paid on entry to incorporations of trades. -- Freedom of the city, the possession of the rights and privileges of a freeman of the city; formerly often, and now occasionally, conferred on one not a resident, as a mark of honorary distinction for public services. Syn. -- See Liberty. [ 1913 Webster ] |