sumptuary law

noun

1
: a law common in the 13th to 15th centuries to prevent extravagance in private life by limiting expenditure for clothing, food, and furniture
2
: a law designed to regulate habits primarily on moral or religious grounds but regarded as justified under the police power of the state

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Dictionary Entries Near sumptuary law

Cite this Entry

“Sumptuary law.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sumptuary%20law. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

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