civil liberties

Cultural  

1. In general, the rights to freedom of thought, expression, and action, and the protection of these rights from government interference or restriction. Civil liberties are the hallmark of liberal, democratic “free” societies. In the United States, the Bill of Rights guarantees a variety of civil liberties, most notably freedom of assembly, freedom of the press, freedom of religion, and freedom of speech, expressed in the First Amendment (see also First Amendment). (See civil rights.)

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Example Sentences

The deal includes language that the use of the models will be consistent with civil liberties, constitutional rights and applicable law, the source said.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

But Green Party leader Zack Polanski has said it would be wrong if Wednesday's "abhorrent" attack "curtails our civil liberties".

From BBC • Apr. 30, 2026

Russia would soon have a genuine parliament, and the government pledged to honor civil liberties.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

Lawmakers in the EU parliament's civil liberties committee gave it their green light Wednesday, paving the way for approval by the full assembly on March 26.

From Barron's • Mar. 18, 2026

The abuse of civil liberties brought about by the Palmer Raids ultimately shocked fair-minded citizens.

From "1919 The Year That Changed America" by Martin W. Sandler

Related Words

• freedom
• freedom of religion
• freedom of speech
• human rights