F

[free ball]  {n.}

A ball in football that is in play, that is not in the possession of anyone, that is not a legally thrown forward pass, and that belongs to the first team which can grab it.

* /A Notre Dame player fell on a free ball and recovered it  […]

[free enterprise]  {n. phr.}

A system in which private business is controlled by as few government rules as possible.

[free hand]  {n.}

Great freedom.

The teacher had a free hand in her classroom.

Bob put paint on the fence with a free hand.

Compare: [FREE REIN].

[free rein]  {n.}

Freedom to do what you want.

The king had free rein in his country.

Father is strict with the children, but Mother gives them free rein.

Compare: [FREE HAND].

[free throw]  {n.}

A shot at the basket in basketball without interference from opponents.

Mike scored the winning point on a free throw.

Compare: [FIELD GOAL] (2), [FOUL SHOT].

[free-for-all]  {n.}

1. Unlimited, free access to something everybody wants.

The Smith's party was a lavish free-for-all; everybody could eat and drink as much as they wanted.

2. A barroom, tavern, or street fight in which everybody participates.

 […]

[freeload]  {v.}

To have oneself supported in terms of food and housing at someone else's expense.

[freeze]

See: [BLOOD RUNS COLD] or [BLOOD FREEZES].

[freeze one's blood]

See: [BLOOD RUNS COLD].

[freeze out]  {v.},  {informal}

To force out or keep from a share or part in something by unfriendly or dishonest treatment.