free
|free|
/friː/
unrestricted
Etymology
'free' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'frēo', where 'frēo' meant 'not in bondage, acting of one's own will'.
'frēo' changed from Old English word 'frēo' and eventually became the modern English word 'free'.
Initially, it meant 'not in bondage', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'not under control or in the power of another'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
release from captivity, confinement, or slavery.
The activists worked to free the hostages.
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Adjective 1
not under the control or in the power of another; able to act or be done as one wishes.
He felt free after quitting his job.
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Adjective 2
not or no longer confined or imprisoned.
The bird was set free from its cage.
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Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35