Enfranchised: meaning, definitions and examples
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enfranchised
[ ɛnˈfrænˌtʃaɪzd ]
granting rights
To enfranchise means to grant the rights of citizenship, particularly the right to vote, to individuals or groups who were previously denied these rights. This term is often associated with movements aimed at expanding democratic participation and ensuring equality among citizens. Enfranchisement has played a significant role in various social and political reforms throughout history, particularly concerning marginalized communities. The process can involve legislative action or referendums that explicitly recognize and extend voting rights.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The new law enfranchised women, allowing them to vote in elections.
- Activists worked tirelessly to enfranchise minority groups across the country.
- The movement successfully enfranchised young voters through new legislation.
Translations
Translations of the word "enfranchised" in other languages:
🇵🇹 franquear
🇮🇳 अधिकारित
🇩🇪 befreit
🇮🇩 memperoleh hak suara
🇺🇦 наділений правом голосу
🇵🇱 uwolniony
🇯🇵 権利を与えられた
🇫🇷 affranchi
🇪🇸 liberado
🇹🇷 özgürleştirilmiş
🇰🇷 자유를 얻은
🇸🇦 محرر
🇨🇿 osvobozený
🇸🇰 oslobodený
🇨🇳 解放的
🇸🇮 osvobojen
🇮🇸 frelsaður
🇰🇿 босатылған
🇬🇪 განთავისუფლებული
🇦🇿 azad edilmiş
🇲🇽 liberado
Etymology
The term 'enfranchise' originates from the Middle English word 'franchisen', which means to liberate or free. The prefix 'en-' means 'to make' or 'to put into' and 'franchise' refers to a grant of rights or privileges. Its earliest usage dates back to the 14th century when it was used in legal contexts involving the granting of rights to individuals or groups. Throughout history, the concept of enfranchisement has evolved and is deeply linked to significant historical events, especially concerning suffrage movements across the globe. In the 19th and 20th centuries, enfranchisement became a central theme during struggles for civil rights, with various groups advocating for their right to vote. The term is often used in political discourse today, as it continues to be relevant in discussions around voter rights and access.