free spirit

noun

plural free spirits

: a person who thinks and acts in an uninhibited way without worrying about normal social rules : nonconformist

Their daughter is a real free spirit.

Von der Becke thinks of himself now as a free spirit: a sort of drug-free, hard-working hippie.

—Tim Cahill

Here was a man of extraordinary sensitivity, political acumen, spiritual power, and sexual wildness; a free spirit if ever there was one.

—Alice Walker

free-spirited

ˈfrē-ˈspir-ə-təd 

adjective

Synonyms

• bohemian
• maverick
• lone ranger
• lone wolf
• enfant terrible

Examples of free spirit in a Sentence

Their daughter is a real free spirit.

an artistically inclined free spirit who felt alienated and stifled while growing up in a small town

Recent Examples on the Web

Marion, who wears his trademark cowboy hat, is big on energy and being a free spirit. —Joe Davidson, Sacbee.com, 5 June 2025

Exhausted and piqued after overhearing a patronizing conversation about David, Ester leaves in the caravan, taking her son on an impromptu drive, during which they are joined by livewire free spirit Zuza (Juliana Brutovska). —Catherine Bray, Variety, 24 May 2025

Aquarius: Justin Suarez Socially conscious and true fashionista, Justin’s creativity and free spirit very much align with Aquarius’ rebellious nature and sparkling individuality. —Valerie Mesa, People.com, 14 Apr. 2025

Pisces: Jeannie Jeannie aligns with Pisces, known for their free spirit and an enigmatic aura that enchants all others. —Skyler Caruso, People.com, 26 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1931, in the meaning defined above