from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Freedom \Free"dom\ (fr[=e]"d[u^]m), n. [AS. fre['o]d[=o]m;
fre['o]free + -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]