Free from restrictions, limitations, or chains; able to move or act without obstacles.
From 'un-' (not) + 'fettered' (bound with chains, from 'fetter,' a chain for the feet, from Old Norse). The word literally meant 'not bound in chains' before evolving to mean freedom in general.
The word 'unfettered' still carries the image of breaking actual chains and shackles, which is why it's so powerful when used metaphorically for freedom of speech, thought, or movement—it invokes a visceral feeling of liberation!
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