How Do You Spell FREETHINKER?

Pronunciation: [fɹˈiːθɪŋkə] (IPA)

Freethinker is a person who forms their beliefs and opinions independently and is not constrained by tradition, authority, or dogma. The spelling of "freethinker" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /ˈfriːˌθɪŋkər/. The first syllable is pronounced like the word "free," and the second syllable is pronounced with a "th" sound, as in "thought," followed by "inker" like "thinker." This spelling accurately represents the pronunciation of this word and helps ensure clarity and consistency in communication.

FREETHINKER Meaning and Definition

  1. A freethinker is an individual who engages in the pursuit of knowledge and understanding through independent and critical thinking, unrestricted by traditional customs, dogmas, or religious beliefs. This term broadly applies to someone who holds rational and evidence-based perspectives, rather than adhering to established authorities or blindly accepting prevailing societal norms.

    Freethinkers are characterized by their unwavering commitment to acknowledge, question, and evaluate ideas, beliefs, and concepts using reason and logic. They embrace intellectual autonomy and advocate for intellectual freedom, often challenging traditional or orthodox viewpoints. Freethinkers are characterized by their openness to new ideas and their rejection of absolute certainty, actively seeking alternative explanations and interpretations.

    These individuals are driven by a dedication to skepticism and a commitment to the scientific method, valuing verifiable evidence and empirical observations over superstition or faith. Freethinkers are known for their willingness to explore unpopular or controversial subjects, promoting rational discourse and discouraging blind conformity.

    The ideology of a freethinker encompasses various arenas of life, including religion, politics, social issues, and philosophy. Through their critical examination of traditional teachings and societal conventions, freethinkers aim to cultivate genuine intellectual progress and challenge the existing power structures. By promoting and employing reason, logic, and evidence as the foundation of their thinking, freethinkers strive to emancipate themselves from mental constraints and encourage others to cultivate intellectual autonomy.

  2. A sceptic: free-trade, trade or commerce without undue restrictions.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for FREETHINKER

Etymology of FREETHINKER

The word "freethinker" originated in the mid-17th century and is composed of two elements: "free" and "thinker".

The term "free" comes from the Old English word "freo", which means "without constraint" or "unrestricted". It has its roots in the Proto-Germanic word "frijaz", which carries the sense of being "beloved" or "dear". Over time, "free" came to represent the concept of being unrestricted, independent, or not bound by external influences.

The word "thinker" has an etymology related to mental activity. It comes from the Old English verb "thencan", meaning "to conceive in the mind, consider, or meditate". This verb is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "thankjan", which carries the sense of "thinking" or "reflecting".

Similar spelling words for FREETHINKER

Plural form of FREETHINKER is FREETHINKERS

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