Main Entry: lais·sez–faire

Pronunciation: \ˌle-ˌsā-ˈfer, ˌlā-, -ˌzā-\

Function: noun

Etymology: French laissez faire, imperative of laisser faire to let (people) do (as they choose)

Date: 1825

1 : a doctrine opposing governmental interference in economic affairs beyond the minimum necessary for the maintenance of peace and property rights
2 : a philosophy or practice characterized by a usually deliberate abstention from direction or interference especially with individual freedom of choice and action

— laissez–faire adjective