Definition

Not having any commitments or responsibilities, allowing someone to act freely and without restrictions.

Example

After graduating, she felt footloose and ready to travel the world without any obligations.

Conversation

I love how you can just travel whenever you want.

Yeah, being footloose really gives me that freedom.

I wish I could be more footloose like you.

You can! Just take the leap and start planning some trips.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Footloose is formed from "foot" (from Old English "fōt", meaning the lower limb) and "loose" (from Old English "losian", meaning to be free or unbound). The word describes someone who is free to move about without restrictions, particularly in a social or geographical sense.

Memory Tip

Think of having your 'foot' free ('loose') to move wherever you want — that's what footloose means.

Visually Confused Words