GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

last match results

Found 2 definitions

1.       
   Franchise , n. [F., fr. franc, fem. franche, free. See Frank, a.]
   Exemption from constraint or oppression; freedom; liberty. [Obs.]
   Spenser.
   
   1913 Webster
   (LAw) A particular privilege conferred by grant from a sovereign or a government, and vested in individuals; an immunity or exemption from ordinary jurisdiction; a constitutional or statutory right or privilege, esp. the right to vote.
   1913 Webster
   Election by universal suffrage, as modified by the Constitution, is the one crowning franchise of the American people.
   W. H. Seward.
   
   1913 Webster
   The district or jurisdiction to which a particular privilege extends; the limits of an immunity; hence, an asylum or sanctuary.
   1913 Webster
   Churches and mobasteries in Spain are franchises for criminals.
   London Encyc.
   
   1913 Webster
   Magnanimity; generosity; liberality; frankness; nobility. “Franchise in woman.” [Obs.]
   Chaucer.
   
   1913 Webster
   Elective franchise, the privilege or right of voting in an election of public officers.
   1913 Webster
   
         
       

2.       
   Franchise, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Franchised ; p. pr. & vb. n. Franchising.] [Cf. OF. franchir to free, F., to cross.] To make free; to enfranchise; to give liberty to.
   Shak.
   
   1913 Webster