affranchise

[ uh-fran-chahyz ]

verb (used with object)

, af·fran·chised, af·fran·chis·ing.

1. to free from a state of dependence, servitude, or obligation.

affranchise

/ əˈfræntʃaɪz /

verb

1. tr to release from servitude or an obligation

Derived Forms

• afˈfranchisement, noun

Other Words From

• af·franchise·ment noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of affranchise¹

1450–1500; late Middle English < Middle French afranchiss-, long stem of afranchir, verbal derivative, with a- a- ⁵, of franc free; frank ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of affranchise¹

C15: from Old French afranchiss-, a stem of afranchir, from franchir to free; see frank

Example Sentences

Barbaric independence had followed Greek and Roman slavery, which in turn was succeeded by feudal servitude, to reappear once more in the affranchised communes.

From Project Gutenberg

After having affranchised the children of their slaves the Europeans of the Southern States would very shortly be obliged to extend the same benefit to the whole black population.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• liberate
• loosen