Use of the word FREE

[bob 59]

I am concerned that the word FREE may be losing its meaning. Supermarkets are using the term "buy one get one FREE". The second item in my opinion is not FREE although there is no charge for it, as the second item with no charge is dependant on the purchase of the first item and is therefore conditional on this purchase, therefore does not appear to be FREE.
Am I right in assuming the the word FREE should be without conditions?
Can someone advise?
Regards Bob

[5jj]

There is nothing about the word free in any of its senses that requires the absence of conditions.

[Barb_D]

And I can tell you from experience just how expensive a "free kitten" ends up being!

(Love her, though!)