freedom of speech

American  

noun

1. the right of people to express their opinions publicly without governmental interference, subject to the laws against libel, incitement to violence or rebellion, etc.

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freedom of speech Cultural  

1. The right to speak without censorship or restraint by the government. Freedom of speech is protected by the First Amendment (see also First Amendment) to the Constitution. (See clear and present danger.)

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Etymology

Origin of freedom of speech

First recorded in 1940–45

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

freedom of speech

In the Peacock case, the court also notes that the tax violates the First Amendment because it infringes on freedom of speech by “requiring content-based distinctions.”

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 25, 2026

The US president also called on Americans to respect freedom of speech.

From BBC ● Jul. 25, 2026

Listen to which political candidates right now are talking about freedom of speech or immigration issues.

From Salon ● Jul. 20, 2026

"I have safety, I have freedom of speech, I have freedom of religion, I can wear whatever I want as a woman," she told AFP.

From Barron's ● Jul. 4, 2026

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