freedom of the city

noun

1. nominal citizenship in a city, conferred as an honor upon important visitors.
2. (formerly) official citizenship in a city, conferred upon distinguished nonresidents.

Word History and Origins

Origin of freedom of the city¹

First recorded in 1765–75

Example Sentences

Houghton went on to become the first female player to appear on the cover of Shoot magazine, was made an MBE and received the Freedom of the City in Sunderland.

From BBC

Spencer was made both an OBE and CBE and in June 2010 she received the Freedom of the City of London.

From BBC

Over the years, Dr Stephenson's unwavering commitment to equality and social justice earned him numerous accolades, including honorary degrees and doctorates, The Freedom of the City of Bristol and a Pride of Britain award for lifetime achievement from Sir Lenny Henry in 2017.

From BBC

The pair were also honoured by Wrexham council with the freedom of the city in 2022.

From BBC

The trip was also made by the mayor of Lake Havasu City, Cal Sheehy, who was in London to receive his own Freedom of the City of London by the City of London Corporation.

From BBC