Liberty
ˈlɪbərti
Definitions
3 meaningsThe power or scope to act as one pleases.
ˈlɪbərti
The state of being free within society from oppressive restrictions imposed by authority on one's way of life, behavior, or political views.
The protesters demanded liberty and justice for all.
💡 Simply: Imagine you can do whatever you want, within reason, without someone telling you what to do. That's liberty! Like choosing what to eat, or what games to play.
👶 For kids: Being free to do what you want and make your own choices.
More Examples
The prisoner was granted his liberty after many years.
The new constitution was designed to protect individual liberties.
How It's Used
"The Declaration of Independence proclaimed the rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness."
"Citizens fought for their liberty during times of oppression."
Freedom from control or the power to do as one pleases.
ˈlɪbərti
Freedom from arbitrary or unjust imprisonment or control.
The court upheld his right to personal liberty.
💡 Simply: It means you are free to do what you want, like going anywhere you like or saying what you believe without some authority trying to stop you, like a parent saying no.
👶 For kids: Being free to go and do what you want.
More Examples
The state is responsible for protecting the liberties of its citizens.
The authorities infringed on the citizens' liberties by implementing unnecessary surveillance.
How It's Used
"The judge ruled that the suspect was denied his liberty."
"The writ of habeas corpus protects against unlawful imprisonment and ensures the right to liberty."
The right to enjoy freedoms and protections.
ˈlɪbərti
A right or privilege, especially a specific one, granted by law.
The government ensured the citizen's fundamental liberties.
💡 Simply: Having important freedoms that are protected by rules or laws like the freedom to speak what you think or worship in your own way.
👶 For kids: Rights or special things that people are allowed to do, like what they can say.
More Examples
The new law aimed to extend liberties to all residents.
She fought tirelessly to protect individual liberties.
How It's Used
"The constitution guarantees certain civil liberties."
"The bill aimed to protect the liberties of all citizens."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
take liberties
To behave in a way that is not appropriate or respectful, especially by being too familiar or informal.
"He took liberties with my research and presented it as his own."
liberty, equality, fraternity
The motto of the French Revolution, expressing the ideals of freedom, equal rights, and brotherhood.
"The principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity were at the heart of the revolution."
From Old French liberté, from Latin libertas, libertat- ('freedom'), from liber ('free').
The word 'liberty' has been a central theme in political and philosophical discourse since ancient times, embodying the struggle for freedom and self-governance.
Memory tip
Think of the Statue of Liberty—a symbol of freedom and the ability to choose.
Word Origin
"freedom"