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

Republicans and conservatives have long been saying that they represent a strict constructionist view of the Constitution, law and order, limited government, fiscal responsibility, free enterprise and traditional Christian values.

From Salon

Supreme Court must apply its strict constructionist doctrines to this case and disqualify Trump as the Constitution requires.

From Seattle Times

Such was the case when some sociologists levied a social constructionist critique of the use of the psychiatric system, which was subsequently used by conservatives to justify dismantling the state public health system in the United States.

From Salon

“I will follow a similar strict constructionist constitutional standard to appoint judges in Maryland to defend the freedoms of all,” Cox said in a text message.

From Washington Post

On deaccessioning, I’m not a strict constructionist.

From New York Times