What term refers to a freed slave?

The term "libertus" refers specifically to a freed slave in ancient Roman society. Once a slave was liberated, the individual became a libertus, having gained their freedom. This status allowed them certain rights and responsibilities, but it also typically came with a continued obligation to their former master, who became their patron.

In contrast, the other terms listed have different meanings: "patronus" refers to a patron, or a person of higher social status who supports or protects a freedman; "cliens" is a client or dependent of a patron, often someone of lower social status who seeks protection and support; and "vilicus" denotes a steward or overseer of a villa or estate, typically responsible for managing agricultural production, which does not relate to the status of being a freed slave. Understanding these distinctions clarifies why "libertus" is the correct term for a freed slave.