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 draconian rule of law under Pinochet also thwarted the young director’s cinematic ambitions.
—
Christopher Vourlias, Variety, 22 Apr. 2026
In countries where the rule of law is weaker, the risks are magnified.
—Hettie O'Brien, The Dial, 21 Apr. 2026
The orders represented a federal overreach that threatened the local rule of law.
—Sara Tenenbaum, CBS News, 20 Apr. 2026
There’s hope for a spring-cleaning in Budapest for the rule of law, too.
—Lionel Laurent, Twin Cities, 17 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for rule of law
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Christopher Vourlias, Variety, 22 Apr. 2026
In countries where the rule of law is weaker, the risks are magnified.
—Hettie O'Brien, The Dial, 21 Apr. 2026
The orders represented a federal overreach that threatened the local rule of law.
—Sara Tenenbaum, CBS News, 20 Apr. 2026
There’s hope for a spring-cleaning in Budapest for the rule of law, too.
—Lionel Laurent, Twin Cities, 17 Apr. 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 30 Apr. 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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