Definition

Not being under obligation to someone; free from any duty or responsibility to act in a certain way.

Example

She felt unbeholden to anyone after making her own choices in life.

Conversation

I really admire how you live your life, so unbeholden to others' opinions.

Thanks! I think it's important to stay true to yourself.

Exactly! Being unbeholden lets you make choices that feel right for you.

Totally! It brings a sense of freedom that I really cherish.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unbeholden → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "beholden" (from Old English "behealdan", meaning to hold or to regard). The word "unbeholden" means not held or obligated to someone, indicating a lack of indebtedness or obligation.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being connected to 'held' ('beholden') — this helps you remember that 'unbeholden' means not being obligated to anyone.

Visually Confused Words