free trade

noun

Synonyms of free tradenext
: trade based on the unrestricted international exchange of goods with tariffs used only as a source of revenue

Examples of free trade in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Mercosur and Canada are targeting a free trade agreement by the end of 2026, which could further strengthen Brazil’s competitiveness and broaden its opportunities in North America. — Sj Studio, Footwear News, 2 Sep. 2026 The United States declined to extend the free trade pact for another 16 years during the mandatory joint review on July 1. — Jamie L. Lareau, Freep.com, 28 Aug. 2026 Having refused to join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership in 2019, a group dominated by China, New Delhi has signed free trade agreements with New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the European Union. — C. Raja Mohan, Foreign Affairs, 27 Aug. 2026 Peel, who is an expert on the Mexican cattle trade, told CNN that screwworm isn’t the primary force behind high cattle prices, and sees the issue as a fig-leaf for a broader anti-free trade agenda. — Max Saltman, CNN Money, 22 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for free trade

Word History

First Known Use

1766, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of free trade was in 1766

Rhymes for free trade

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Browse Nearby Words

Freetown
free trade
free trader
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Cite this Entry

“Free trade.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/free%20trade. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

free trade

noun
: trade between nations without restrictions (as high taxes on imports)

More from Merriam-Webster on free trade

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for free trade

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about free trade

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