Word
freeman
Phoneticsfree·man, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈfɹimən/
UK/fɹˈiːmən/
Definitions
01not a slave
C2 · Proficiency Countable noun Archaic · Literary
n. a person who is free and not owned by anyone else.
n. an individual who is not a slave, serf, or person in bondage. Often used in historical contexts to distinguish free citizens from enslaved populations.
“In the old story, the hero was a freeman who traveled across the country alone.”
“The document recorded the legal status of every resident, distinguishing clearly between those held in servitude and those living as freemen.”
Teaching tip
In modern English, we simply say 'a free man' (two words). The compound 'freeman' is almost exclusively found in historical or legal texts.
Synonyms
Antonyms
02city status
C2 · Proficiency Countable noun Law Formal · British English
n. someone who has been given special rights or honors by a city or town.
n. a person who has been admitted to the freedom of a city, borough, or company, often carrying specific privileges or ceremonial status.
“He was proud to be named a freeman of the city for his charity work.”
“The guild granted him the status of freeman, allowing him to trade within the city walls without paying the usual merchant tolls.”
Usage
Often used in the phrase 'freeman of the city'.
Teaching tip
This is still used today as a ceremonial honor in some British cities, similar to 'giving someone the keys to the city' in the US.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C2 ProficiencyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.8.5–9.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 6.0114–120
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- C2 · Proficiency
- Updated
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