PoliticsSeptember 6, 2026

constitutionalizing

kon-stih-TOO-shun-ly-zing

Definition

To establish something by constitutional law or to bring it under the authority or protection of the Constitution.

Etymology

Derived from 'constitution,' which comes from the Latin 'constitutio' meaning 'act of establishing.' The suffix '-ize' adds the sense of making something conform to or become a part of that established system.

In the news

The author uses this term to criticize Chief Justice John Roberts for allegedly inventing or elevating a legal right to birthright citizenship through a judicial opinion, rather than it being explicitly defined that way in the Constitution.

MIKE DAVIS: Trump’s ballroom win highlights need for serious judicial nominees

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