constructionist

American  

[kuhn-struhk-shuh-nist] / kənˈstrʌk ʃə nɪst /

noun

1. a person who construes or interprets, especially laws or the like, in a specific manner.

   a strict constructionist.

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constructionist British  

/ kənˈstrʌkʃənɪst /

noun

1. a person who interprets constitutional law in a certain way, esp strictly

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Other Word Forms

• constructionism noun

Etymology

Origin of constructionist

First recorded in 1835–45; construction + -ist

Example Sentences

On deaccessioning, I’m not a strict constructionist.

From New York Times

As a stager of revivals, he is probably perfect: both a bomb-throwing activist and a strict constructionist.

From New York Times

Serns said his judicial approach would be that of a strict constructionist, following the original language of the Constitution.

From Seattle Times

The former clerk for the late Justice Antonin Scalia is considered to be a strict constructionist.

From Salon

“As the first U.S. senator to call for a nomination, I look forward to supporting a strict constructionist who will protect the right to life, defend the Second Amendment, fight for religious freedom and safeguard our values,” Ms. Loeffler wrote in a fund-raising message sent to her supporters on Friday night.

From New York Times