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

Lies and misinformation divide us, discourage civic participation, erode trust in the rule of law and justify policies that can weaken our democracy. —Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 6 Aug. 2025

But our lawsuit sent a clear message: this Administration won’t get any free passes to undermine our rule of law. —Andrea Campbell, Time, 6 Aug. 2025

This jawboning undermines one of our core competitive advantages – a pro-growth business environment grounded in the rule of law. —Wayne Winegarden, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2025

There are civil-rights groups and judges who have refused Trump’s most blatant challenges to the rule of law. —David Remnick, New Yorker, 3 Aug. 2025

Rhymes for rule of law

• avoirdupois
• aa
• aha
• bashaw
• bradshaw
• byelaw
• bylaw
• chainsaw
• cheraw
• coleslaw
• crenshaw
• dada

Legal 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)

2

: government by law : adherence to due process of law