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

Novak, declared that the crowd was there to celebrate more than just freedom of speech — they were there for “literary glamour.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 2, 2026

The University of Sussex has won its legal challenge of a record £585,000 fine over freedom of speech.

From BBC • Apr. 29, 2026

Perhaps most damaging for the regulator meant to oversee freedom of speech, the accusation of bias in the process was also upheld.

From BBC • Apr. 29, 2026

According to the U.K.’s Public Order Act, which outlines how freedom of speech may be restricted, any speech that includes “threatening” or “abusive” words is likely to be censored.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 21, 2026

For democracy to work, Eisenhower realized that one of the most important civil liberties was the freedom of speech.

From "Hitler Youth: Growing Up in Hitler's Shadow" by Susan Campbell Bartoletti