rule of law

noun phrase

: a situation in which the laws of a country are obeyed by everyone
The courts uphold the rule of law.

Examples of rule of law in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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This decision has ominous implications for the future of American democracy, effectively concentrating power in the executive branch and undermining the rule of law. Steven Delco, Hartford Courant, 1 Jan. 2025 Since the beginning of 2015, the US has dropped from 20th to the 26th in the World Justice Project's rule of law index. Alejandro Antonio Chafuen, Forbes, 31 Dec. 2024 There is still much work to be done in criminal court, and our office will continue to diligently prosecute cases with integrity, fairness, and commitment to the rule of law. Charmaine Patterson, People.com, 24 Dec. 2024 There are many noxious things about Trump, and perhaps even uncharged felonies somewhere in his life history, but for most people, what Bragg did in New York was a legal travesty that undercut belief in our criminal justice system and broader rule of law. Bradley Gitz, arkansasonline.com, 23 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for rule of law 

Dictionary Entries Near rule of law

Cite this Entry

“Rule of law.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rule%20of%20law. Accessed 15 Jan. 2025.

Legal Definition

rule of law

1
: an authoritative legal doctrine, principle, or precept applied to the facts of an appropriate case
adopting the rule of law that is most persuasive in light of precedent, reason and policyWright v. Wright, 904 P.2d 403 (1995)
2
: government by law : adherence to due process of law
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