Liberal
/ˈlɪbərəl/
Definitions
3 meaningsHolding or characterized by political views that favor progress and reform, especially concerning individual rights and freedoms.
/ˈlɪbərəl/
Open to new behavior or opinions and willing to discard traditional values.
The university has a liberal arts program.
💡 Simply: Imagine someone who's cool with trying new things and believes in giving everyone a fair chance. Like, they're open to different ideas and think everyone should have the same rights.
👶 For kids: Being fair and kind, and letting people have their own ideas.
More Examples
The liberal politician advocated for healthcare reform.
She has liberal views on education.
How It's Used
"The liberal party supports social justice and environmental protection."
"She has a liberal view on education."
Giving or given in a generous and openhanded way.
/ˈlɪbərəl/
Generous; plentiful.
The company offered a liberal expense account.
💡 Simply: It's like when someone is super generous, like giving out lots of candy, or being very open with compliments and praise!
👶 For kids: Giving a lot of something, like being super generous with your toys!
More Examples
She was liberal with her advice.
The chef used a liberal amount of spice.
How It's Used
"The company offers a liberal expense account."
"She was liberal with her praise."
A person whose political views favor progress and reform.
/ˈlɪbərəl/
A supporter of liberal political views.
The liberals held a rally in the city.
💡 Simply: It's someone who thinks everyone should be treated fairly and that the world should keep getting better!
👶 For kids: Someone who thinks everyone should be treated nicely and fairly and wants the world to be a better place.
More Examples
She considers herself a liberal.
Liberals support government intervention in the economy.
How It's Used
"Liberals often advocate for social justice."
From Latin liberalis ('befitting a free man'), related to liber ('free'). Initially referred to someone of generous mind, free in giving, or of a non-servile nature, later evolving to its political meaning.
Initially used to describe those generous in spirit and of a free disposition, the term gained traction in political discourse during the 19th century, advocating for individual rights and freedoms against the authority of the state.
Memory tip
Think of being 'free' to have your own opinions and support social change.