laissez-faire

lais·sez–faire

noun \ˌle-ˌsā-ˈfer, ˌlā-, -ˌzā-\

Definition of LAISSEZ-FAIRE

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

Origin of LAISSEZ-FAIRE

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

First Known Use: 1825

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