freeman
- 01 C2 Proficiency
a person who is free and not owned by anyone else.
an individual who is not a slave, serf, or person in bondage. Often used in historical contexts to distinguish free citizens from enslaved populations.
Simple“In the old story, the hero was a freeman who traveled across the country alone.”
In context“The document recorded the legal status of every resident, distinguishing clearly between those held in servitude and those living as freemen.”
Teacher's tipIn modern English, we simply say 'a free man' (two words). The compound 'freeman' is almost exclusively found in historical or legal texts.
- 02 C2 Proficiency
someone who has been given special rights or honors by a city or town.
a person who has been admitted to the freedom of a city, borough, or company, often carrying specific privileges or ceremonial status.
Simple“He was proud to be named a freeman of the city for his charity work.”
In context“The guild granted him the status of freeman, allowing him to trade within the city walls without paying the usual merchant tolls.”
UsageOften used in the phrase 'freeman of the city'.
Teacher's tipThis is still used today as a ceremonial honor in some British cities, similar to 'giving someone the keys to the city' in the US.