Part of Speech

Adjective, Noun

Pronunciation

/ˌkɒnstɪˈtjuːʃənəl/ (UK), /ˌkɑːnstɪˈtuːʃənəl/ (US)

Definitions

• Adjective: Relating to or in accordance with a constitution.
• Adjective: Allowed by or determined by a constitution.
• Noun: A walk taken for health benefits.

Usage Examples

• The new law is being challenged as unconstitutional.
• He enjoys his morning constitutional around the park.
• Freedom of speech is a constitutional right in many democracies.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin constitutio, meaning "arrangement, establishment." The adjective form dates back to the 17th century, while the noun sense (referring to a walk) emerged in the 19th century.

Synonyms

• Legal
• Lawful
• Charter-based
• Fundamental
• Permissible

Antonyms

• Unconstitutional
• Illegal
• Unlawful
• Extralegal

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• British English: /ˌkɒnstɪˈtjuːʃənəl/
• American English: /ˌkɑːnstɪˈtuːʃənəl/
• Australian English: /ˌkɒnstɪˈtjuːʃənəl/
• Indian English: /ˌkɒnstɪˈtjuːʃənəl/

Historical Usage

The term 'constitutional' has been used in legal and political contexts since at least the 17th century. The concept of constitutional government gained prominence during the Enlightenment and played a key role in shaping modern democracies.

Cultural Nuances

In many countries, the term 'constitutional' carries strong legal and political connotations. It often refers to the legitimacy of laws and government actions within a nation's foundational legal framework.

More Information

The adjective 'constitutional' is commonly used in political and legal discourse to describe laws, rights, and governance structures that align with a nation's constitution. It is a key term in discussions about democracy, governance, and law.

The noun form, referring to a health-related walk, became popular in the 19th century as part of a broader cultural emphasis on outdoor activity for well-being.