Meaning & use
civil rights
The legal rights guaranteeing individuals equal treatment, personal freedom, and protection from discrimination.
See it in a sentence
The right to vote and the right to a fair trial are both civil rights.
The museum documents the struggle to secure civil rights for all citizens.
A note on using this word
Civil rights typically protect against discrimination and unequal treatment, distinct from broader human rights or property rights.
Words with a similar meaning
civil liberties
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