1 legalism | Definition of legalism
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legalism

noun
le·​gal·​ism | \ ˈlÄ“-gÉ™-ËŒli-zÉ™m How to pronounce legalism (audio) \

Definition of legalism

1 : strict, literal, or excessive conformity to the law or to a religious or moral code the institutionalized legalism that restricts free choice
2 : a legal term or rule

Examples of legalism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

 Harris has famously repented of his past legalism, and that makes his departure from the faith particularly poignant. — David French, National Review, "Whither Evangelical Purity Culture? Thoughts on the Legacy of a Lost Pastor," 29 July 2019 In response, Boeing vice president Austell dismissed the Airbus position as a deceptive legalism. — Dominic Gates, The Seattle Times, "WTO upholds ruling against Washington’s tax reduction for Boeing," 9 June 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'legalism.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of legalism

1871, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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More from Merriam-Webster on legalism

Rhyming Dictionary: Words that rhyme with legalism

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about legalism

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