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
The dismissals of the indictments against former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James were a victory for the rule of law, but the victory may be short-lived.
—
Barbara McQuade, Mercury News, 2 Dec. 2025
This policy undermines both student learning and the rule of law.
—Peter D'abrosca, FOXNews.com, 29 Nov. 2025
Every prosecutor at the DOJ should continue to adhere to the rule of law, and resist political pressure to do otherwise.
—Hannah Parry, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 Nov. 2025
It was forged during the Cold War, largely by American politicians and commentators insisting on its foundations in democracy, the rule of law, and human rights.
—Victor J. Blue, Harpers Magazine, 23 Nov. 2025
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Barbara McQuade, Mercury News, 2 Dec. 2025
This policy undermines both student learning and the rule of law.
—Peter D'abrosca, FOXNews.com, 29 Nov. 2025
Every prosecutor at the DOJ should continue to adhere to the rule of law, and resist political pressure to do otherwise.
—Hannah Parry, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 Nov. 2025
It was forged during the Cold War, largely by American politicians and commentators insisting on its foundations in democracy, the rule of law, and human rights.
—Victor J. Blue, Harpers Magazine, 23 Nov. 2025
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 12 Dec. 2025.
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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