rule of law

American  

noun

1. the principle that all people and institutions are subject to and accountable to law that is fairly applied and enforced; the principle of government by law.

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Usage

What is the rule of law? The rule of law refers to the idea that everyone in a society agrees to be governed by and follow the laws of a society.

Etymology

Origin of rule of law

First recorded in 1500–10

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

rule of law

A judicial duty explicit in the Constitution, the enforcement of federal statutes is foundational to a nation where every individual, including the president, is subject to the rule of law.

From Slate ● Sep. 16, 2026

"Today is a good day for democracy, the rule of law, and the American people looking to exercise their Constitutional right to vote," the governor said in a statement.

From Barron's ● Sep. 15, 2026

After he criticized Costa Rica’s system of government as a “perfect dictatorship,” eight former presidents of the country released a joint statement defending Costa Rica’s tradition of respecting the rule of law and human rights.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 27, 2026

It has the power to freeze a country's membership or suspend its voting rights if it is found to have seriously violated the rule of law.

From BBC ● Aug. 25, 2026

And her voice has got something in it this time, like the rule of law, so much so that Matthew flinches a little.

From "The Knife of Never Letting Go" by Patrick Ness