academic freedom

American  

noun

1. freedom of a teacher to discuss or investigate any controversial social, economic, or political problems without interference or penalty from officials, organized groups, etc.

2. freedom of a student to explore any field or hold any belief without interference from the teacher.

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academic freedom Cultural  

1. The right of teachers and students to express their ideas in the classroom or in writing, free from political, religious, or institutional restrictions, even if these ideas are unpopular.

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Etymology

Origin of academic freedom

An Americanism dating back to 1900–05

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

academic freedom

And yet, the encroachment on academic freedom has become both more extreme and more inchoate.

From Salon ● Jun. 20, 2026

Zaentz, UC’s senior director of strategic and critical communications, said it “remains committed to protecting the mission, governance and academic freedom of the university.”

From Los Angeles Times ● Feb. 13, 2026

As the regulator for all higher education providers in England, the outcome of the challenge against the OfS will have far-reaching implications for its ability to enforce freedom of speech and academic freedom at universities.

From BBC ● Feb. 3, 2026

"In terms of academic freedom, it's very problematic," said the researcher, who had planned some 20 meetings and seminars with Israeli and Palestinian researchers and students during his trip.

From Barron's ● Jan. 12, 2026

He was a staunch proponent of academic freedom and highly critical of Nazi Germany and Japanese militarism.

From "At Last She Stood" by Erin Entrada Kelly