United States Constitution

Definition

The United States Constitution is the supreme law of the land in the U.S. It outlines the structure and powers of the federal government and guarantees certain rights to its citizens.

Related terms

Federalism: This is a system where power is divided between national and state governments.

Separation of Powers: This principle divides governmental responsibilities into distinct branches (legislative, executive, judicial) to prevent any one branch from gaining too much power.

Judicial Review: This refers to the ability of courts, specifically the Supreme Court, to examine laws or actions by other branches of government and determine their constitutionality.