illiberal

Definition

Restricting or failing to sufficiently promote individual choice and freedom.

Etymology

From Middle French illibéral, from Latin illiberalis, equivalent to il- + liberal.

Example Sentences

• "Behind Europe's commitment to liberal democracy lurks an illiberal tradition. Every time freedom has failed in Europe, it is to that tradition - of violent repression, totalitarianism, xenophobia, and intolerance - that Europeans have reverted."
• "Unless the administration compels all workers to invest in life cycle accounts — an illiberal but nonetheless sensible idea — this particular danger cannot be eliminated."
• "Accordingly, that form of Popery, which prevailed in Scotland, was of the moſt bigotted and illiberal kind."