Liberty

Definition

The state of being free within society from oppressive restrictions imposed by authority on one's behavior or political views.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈlɪbərti/
• Respelling: LIB-er-tee (with "LIB" as in "rib," "er" as in "her," and "tee" as in "see")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈlɪbəti/
• Respelling: LIB-uh-tee (with "LIB" as in "rib," "uh" as in "sofa," and "tee" as in "see")

In both dialects, "liberty" places the primary stress on the first syllable, "LIB." The American pronunciation includes a pronounced "er" sound, while the British pronunciation has a softer "uh" sound in the middle.

Etymology

Derived from the Old French word "liberte", which originates from the Latin word "libertas", from "liber", meaning 'free'.

Derivatives

• Libertarian
• Libertine
• Libertinism
• Liberate
• Liberation

Synonyms

• Freedom
• Independence
• Autonomy

Antonyms

• Oppression
• Captivity
• Constraint

Usage

Liberty is a fundamental concept in political philosophy, law, and human rights, often discussed in the context of civil liberties, personal freedoms, and societal structures.

Related Terms

• Freedom: The power or right to act, speak, or think as one wants without hindrance or restraint.
• Democracy: A system of government by the whole population, typically through elected representatives.
• Human Rights: Rights inherent to all human beings, regardless of race, sex, nationality, ethnicity, language, religion, or any other status.

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Liberty (Noun): The state of being free within society from oppressive restrictions imposed by authority on one's way of life, behavior, or political views.
  • Example: "The constitution guarantees certain liberties to its citizens."

• Liberty (Noun): The power or scope to act as one pleases.
  • Example: "She took the liberty of arranging the meeting without consulting anyone else."