laissez-passer

noun

lais·​sez-pas·​ser ˌle-ˌsā-ˌpa-ˈsā How to pronounce laissez-passer (audio)
ˌlā-, 
-ˌzā-
: permit, pass

Examples of laissez-passer in a Sentence

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.
Medieval merchants and soldiers were often required to carry laissez-passers. — Jill Lepore, New Yorker, 10 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

French, from laissez passer let (someone) pass

First Known Use

1914, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of laissez-passer was in 1914

Rhymes for laissez-passer

See All Rhymes for laissez-passer

Browse Nearby Words

laissez-faireism
laissez-passer
lait
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Laissez-passer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/laissez-passer. Accessed 14 Aug. 2026.

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Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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