free
UK: friː | US: friː
adj. not under the control or in the power of another; able to act or be done as one wishes
adj. not physically restrained or confined
adj. costing nothing; without charge
vt. release from captivity, confinement, or slavery
The word "free" traces back to Old English frēo, meaning "exempt from, not in bondage," derived from Proto-Germanic frijaz ("beloved, not in bondage"). This term is linked to the concept of being "dear" or "belonging to the family," reflecting the societal shift where freedom was tied to kinship or social status. The Proto-Indo-European root priyós ("dear, beloved") further connects to love and kinship, illustrating how "free" evolved from a familial or social privilege to a broader notion of liberty.
The bird was finally set free after weeks in captivity.
Students enjoy free access to the library resources.
She felt free to express her opinions in the meeting.
The software is free to download for personal use.
The country fought for its right to be free from colonial rule.