home rule

noun

Synonyms of home rulenext
: self-government or limited autonomy in internal affairs by a dependent political unit (such as a territory or municipality)

Examples of home rule in a Sentence

The citizens petitioned for home rule.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Council passed a similar home rule petition to grant voting rights to non-citizens at the end of 2023, by an 8-4 vote. Gayla Cawley, Boston Herald, 18 Mar. 2026 Because South Elgin does not have home rule taxing authority, objections to the loan request can be filed through March 11. Mike Danahey, Chicago Tribune, 3 Mar. 2026 Federal agents occupying a city to enforce immigration law represents nearly the worst-case scenario for home rule. Joshua Simmons, Sun Sentinel, 11 Feb. 2026 Reducing unfunded mandates and preserving home rule empowers communities to respond to local needs while remaining accountable to taxpayers. Carol Platt Liebau, Hartford Courant, 5 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for home rule

Word History

First Known Use

1858, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of home rule was in 1858

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Home rule.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/home%20rule. Accessed 27 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

home rule

noun
: self-government in local affairs by the citizens of a local political unit

Legal Definition

home rule

noun
: self-government or limited autonomy in internal affairs by a dependent political unit (as a territory or municipality)
also : the political theory or principle of self-government

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