Free"dom (frē"dŭm), n.
[AS. freódōm; freófree + -
dom. See Free, and -dom.] 1.
The state of being free; exemption from the power and control of
another; liberty; independence.
Made captive, yet deserving freedom
more.
Milton.
2. Privileges; franchises;
immunities.
Your charter and your caty's
freedom.
Shak.
3. Exemption from necessity, in choise and
action; as, the freedom of the will.
4. Ease; facility; as, he speaks or acts with
freedom.
5. Frankness; openness;
unreservedness.
I emboldened spake and freedom
used.
Milton.
6. Improper familiarity; violation of the
rules of decorum; license.
7. Generosity; liberality. [Obs.]
Chaucer.
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.