资料来源 : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

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.

            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}.