Individual freedoms and rights that protect citizens from government interference, including freedom of speech, religion, press, assembly, and privacy. These rights are typically guaranteed by constitutional law and enforced by courts.
From Latin 'civilis' (relating to citizens) and 'libertas' (freedom). The modern phrase emerged in 18th-century political philosophy as thinkers distinguished between natural rights and those specifically protected within civil society.
Civil liberties represent humanity's hard-won victories against oppression, each one typically purchased with struggle and sacrifice! The ACLU, founded in 1920 during the Red Scare, has defended everyone from Nazis to communists to religious minorities—proving that protecting unpopular speech is essential to protecting everyone's freedom.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.