Liberty

 noun

 

lib·​er·​ty | \ ˈli-bər-tē  \

plural liberties

Definition of Liberty

 (Entry 1 of 2)

1: the quality or state of being free:

a: the power to do as one pleases

b: freedom from physical restraint

c: freedom from arbitrary or despotic (see DESPOT sense 1) control

d: the positive enjoyment of various social, political, or economic rights and privileges

e: the power of choice

2a: a right or immunity enjoyed by prescription or by grant : PRIVILEGE

b: permission especially to go freely within specified limits was given the liberty of the house

3: an action going beyond normal limits: such as

a: a breach of etiquette or propriety : FAMILIARITY took undue liberties with a stranger

b: RISK, CHANCE took foolish liberties with his health

c: a violation of rules or a deviation from standard practice took liberties in the way he played the game

d: a distortion of fact The movie takes many liberties with the actual events.

4: a short authorized absence from naval duty usually for less than 48 hours

 

at liberty

1: FREE

2: at leisure : UNOCCUPIED