Constitution
/ˌkɒnstɪˈtjuːʃ(ə)n/
Definitions
3 meaningsThe system of laws and principles by which a country or organization is governed.
/ˌkɒnstɪˈtjuːʃ(ə)n/
A body of fundamental principles or established precedents according to which a state or other organization is acknowledged to be governed.
The new constitution was ratified by the people.
💡 Simply: Imagine the rules of your favorite game. The constitution is like those rules, but for a whole country or organization, telling everyone what they can and can't do.
👶 For kids: The set of rules that says how a country is run.
More Examples
The document outlines the rights and freedoms guaranteed by the constitution.
Debates raged over the constitution's interpretation.
How It's Used
"The United States Constitution is the supreme law of the land."
"A country's constitution outlines the rights and responsibilities of its citizens."
The physical health and condition of a person.
/ˌkɒnstɪˈtjuːʃ(ə)n/
The physical state of a person, especially in respect of their health.
A good diet helps maintain a strong constitution.
💡 Simply: How strong and healthy you are, like how well your body is built to handle things. A good constitution means you're usually pretty healthy.
👶 For kids: How strong and healthy your body is.
More Examples
The doctor inquired about her constitution before prescribing medication.
His weak constitution made him susceptible to colds.
How It's Used
"His strong constitution allowed him to recover quickly from the illness."
"She has a delicate constitution and is often unwell."
The act of establishing or setting up something.
/ˌkɒnstɪˈtjuːʃ(ə)n/
The action of establishing or setting up something.
The constitution of the committee was done in a day.
💡 Simply: The act of forming or creating something new, like setting up a new group or organization.
👶 For kids: The beginning or making of something.
More Examples
The constitution of the team was done for the purpose of solving the problem.
The constitution of the group went smoothly.
How It's Used
"The constitution of the new company was a lengthy process."
"The constitution of the committee involved members from different departments."
Idioms & expressions
constitutional monarchy
A form of government in which a monarch acts as head of state within the boundaries of a constitution.
"The United Kingdom operates as a constitutional monarchy."
constitution of India
The supreme law of India.
"The constitution of India is the longest constitution in the world."
From Latin constitutio, meaning 'establishment, arrangement,' formed from constituere ('to establish, set up'), from con- ('together') + statuere ('to set up, establish').
The word 'constitution' gained prominence during the Enlightenment era, reflecting a shift towards codified laws and limitations on government.
Memory tip
Think of a blueprint; it's the fundamental structure for a government.
Word Origin
"to establish, set up"