affranchise

[ uh-fran-chahyz ]

verb (used with object)

, af·fran·chised, af·fran·chis·ing.

1. to free from a state of dependence, servitude, or obligation.

affranchise

/ əˈfræntʃaɪz /

verb

1. tr to release from servitude or an obligation

Derived Forms

• afˈfranchisement, noun

Other Words From

• af·franchise·ment noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of affranchise¹

1450–1500; late Middle English < Middle French afranchiss-, long stem of afranchir, verbal derivative, with a- a- ⁵, of franc free; frank ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of affranchise¹

C15: from Old French afranchiss-, a stem of afranchir, from franchir to free; see frank

Related Words

• liberate
• loosen