higher law

American

noun

an ethical or religious principle considered as taking precedence over the laws of society, and to which one may appeal in order to justify disobedience to a constitution or enacted law with which it conflicts.

Etymology

Origin of higher law

An Americanism dating back to 1835–45

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

He also cited "inflation" from higher law firm billing rates and litigation expenses.

From Reuters • Feb. 16, 2023

In the senator’s closing argument, he conceded as much but nevertheless insisted upon a higher law.

From Washington Post • Dec. 26, 2022

Antigone openly and intentionally defies his edict, covering her brother’s body with dirt and publicly declaring her allegiance to a higher law — the law of love.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 16, 2022

Shanahan, T. Phylogenetic inertia and Darwin’s higher law.

From Nature • Nov. 28, 2017

Antigone rebels, on the grounds that there is a higher law than that of the state.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023