Constitution

Definition

Constitution refers to a body of fundamental principles or established precedents according to which a state or organization is governed. It can also mean the physical or mental makeup of a person, often in relation to health and vitality.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌkɑːnstɪˈtuːʃən/
• Respelling: KAHN-sti-TOO-shuhn

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌkɒnstɪˈtjuːʃən/
• Respelling: KON-sti-TYOO-shuhn

Etymology

The word "constitution" originates from the Latin word "constitutio," meaning "arrangement" or "establishment." It was adopted into Middle English via Old French "constitucion," referring to laws and systems of government.

Derivatives

• Constitutional (adjective)
• Constitutionality (noun)
• Constitute (verb)
• Unconstitutional (adjective)
• Reconstitute (verb)

Synonyms

• Charter
• Framework
• Structure

Antonyms

• Disorganization
• Anarchy
• None

Usage

The term "constitution" is primarily used to describe the fundamental legal document that defines the structure of government and laws within a state. It is also used in a broader sense to describe someone's physical or mental state, particularly their health or resilience. For example, "She has a strong constitution and rarely gets sick."

Related Terms

• Law: A system of rules recognized by a community or state as regulating the actions of its members.
• Government: The governing body of a nation, state, or community.
• Rights: Legal, social, or ethical principles of freedom or entitlement.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A body of fundamental principles governing a state or organization: This refers to the legal framework and rules that define how a country or organization operates.
  • Example: "The constitution guarantees freedom of speech."
• The physical or mental makeup of a person: Refers to someone's health or physical condition.
  • Example: "He has a weak constitution and often falls ill."