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free press

American  

noun

  1. a body of book publishers, news media, etc., not controlled or restricted by government censorship in political or ideological matters.


Etymology

Origin of free press

First recorded in 1760–70

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Released this week, the organization’s 2026 press freedom report also shows how a free press is becoming increasingly problematic across the world as a result.

From Salon • May 1, 2026

That, of course, is not how any of this works, and it was a foreboding sign of Crockett’s commitment to a free press, not to mention her understanding of the First Amendment.

From Slate • Mar. 3, 2026

Ryanair and O’Leary are well practiced at leveraging free press for a quick sales boost.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 21, 2026

The news media and free press are supposed to function as the Fourth Estate and the guardians of democracy.

From Salon • Jun. 5, 2025

There were no elections, no free press, no freedom of speech or religion.

From "Fallout: Spies, Superbombs, and the Ultimate Cold War Showdown" by Steve Sheinkin

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