civil liberties

Cultural  

1. In general, the rights to freedom of thought, expression, and action, and the protection of these rights from government interference or restriction. Civil liberties are the hallmark of liberal, democratic “free” societies. In the United States, the Bill of Rights guarantees a variety of civil liberties, most notably freedom of assembly, freedom of the press, freedom of religion, and freedom of speech, expressed in the First Amendment (see also First Amendment). (See civil rights.)

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Example Sentences

If that’s true, I have not heard him or a supporter address what would appear to be a treatment mismatch for the others, as well as a potential civil liberties breach for all of them.

From Slate • Jun. 3, 2026

But the idea came under immediate pressure from political opponents and civil liberties campaigners, including Big Brother Watch, highlighting concerns around privacy.

From BBC • May 20, 2026

“We are not going to divulge law enforcement-sensitive methods,” DHS said, but the department employs various forms of technology, while “respecting civil liberties and privacy interests.”

From The Wall Street Journal • May 1, 2026

The deal includes language that the use of the models will be consistent with civil liberties, constitutional rights and applicable law, the source said.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

“So people’s civil liberties can go to hell so long as we’re safe, yeah?”

From "Here to Stay" by Sara Farizan

Related Words

• freedom
• freedom of religion
• freedom of speech
• human rights