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
Through the protests in the streets of Iran and the tireless advocacy of the diaspora, the Iranian people’s desire for a secular democracy and rule of law is undeniable.
—
Derek Tran, Oc Register, 6 Mar. 2026
Another setback to the idea of the rule of law, an offense to common decency.
—Sophia Tareen, Los Angeles Times, 6 Mar. 2026
The American people deserve a Department of Homeland Security that respects the rule of law and answers to the public.
—Sara Tenenbaum, CBS News, 5 Mar. 2026
Important to keep in mind is that the British have maintained institutions and the rule of law, even as the alternative parties and patterns are emerging.
—Arthur I. Cyr, Chicago Tribune, 3 Mar. 2026
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Derek Tran, Oc Register, 6 Mar. 2026
Another setback to the idea of the rule of law, an offense to common decency.
—Sophia Tareen, Los Angeles Times, 6 Mar. 2026
The American people deserve a Department of Homeland Security that respects the rule of law and answers to the public.
—Sara Tenenbaum, CBS News, 5 Mar. 2026
Important to keep in mind is that the British have maintained institutions and the rule of law, even as the alternative parties and patterns are emerging.
—Arthur I. Cyr, Chicago Tribune, 3 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for 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 13 Mar. 2026.
Copy CitationLegal 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 policy—Wright v. Wright, 904 P.2d 403 (1995)
Wright v. Wright, 904 P.2d 403 (1995)2
: government by law : adherence to due process of law
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