blue laws

British  

plural noun

1. history a number of repressive puritanical laws of the colonial period, forbidding any secular activity on Sundays

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blue laws Cultural  

1. Laws that prohibit certain businesses from opening on Sunday or from selling certain items on that day. Blue laws often apply to bars and to alcohol sales. Originally enacted to allow observation of Sunday as a Sabbath, blue laws have come under attack as violating the separation of church and state. The courts, however, have upheld most blue laws, on the basis that their observance has become secular and promotes Sunday as a day of rest and relaxation.

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Example Sentences

To strengthen their findings, the researchers examined the repeal of "blue laws," which had previously restricted many businesses from operating on Sundays.

From Science Daily • Dec. 20, 2025

Most states repealed their blue laws year ago, but they allow local jurisdictions to set their own rules, which can get confusing.

From Salon • May 24, 2025

For example, the courts have permitted religiously inspired blue laws that limit working hours or even shutter businesses on Sunday,

From Textbooks • Jul. 28, 2021

Another thorny situation: The mall will abide by the blue laws, meaning retail will be closed Sundays even though the restaurants and theme parks will be open, says James Cassella, the East Rutherford, N.J. mayor.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 25, 2019

Because of the blue laws in the town the show closed for the Sabbath.

From "The Heart is a Lonely Hunter" by Carson McCullers