gag rule

noun

1. any rule restricting open discussion or debate concerning a given issue, especially in a deliberative body.

gag rule

noun

1. any closure regulation adopted by a deliberative body

Word History and Origins

Origin of gag rule¹

An Americanism dating back to 1800–10

Example Sentences

Under previous gag rules imposed by Republican presidents like Ronald Reagan and George W. Bush, she said, “You’d finish out your contract, and then you’re not eligible for renewal.”

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“The consequences of President Trump’s global gag rule are not theoretical,” Demant said.

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“Judge Merchan could have initiated an inquiry into whether that violated the gag rule or namely, if Trump was responsible for violations of the gag order,” Burbank said.

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In May, Congress adopts a gag rule designed to prohibit any discussion of petitions related to slavery.

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Trump expanded it into what critics called a “global gag rule,” forbidding foreign aid recipients to even provide information about abortion.

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