separation of powers

Legal Definition of separation of powers

1 : the constitutional allocation of the legislative, executive, and judicial powers among the three branches of government

2 : the doctrine under which the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of government are not to infringe upon each other's constitutionally vested powers — see also nondelegation doctrine

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Dictionary Entries near separation of powers

separation agreement

separation from bed and board

separation of church and state

Cite this Entry

“Separation of powers.” Merriam-Webster.com Legal Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/legal/separation%20of%20powers. Accessed 1 Mar. 2021.

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