WorldAugust 4, 2026
overbreadth
OH-ver-bredth
Definition
A legal doctrine where a statute is challenged because it is so broadly worded that it restricts protected speech or conduct along with the prohibited activities.
Etymology
The word is a compound of the prefix 'over-' (meaning excessively) and 'breadth' (width or scope), which itself stems from the Old English 'brǣdu' related to 'broad'.
In the news
The article uses the term to describe a legal challenge against Florida's anti-drag law, arguing the statute is so loosely defined that it could unfairly suppress constitutional free speech.
Eleventh Circuit, on an 8-5 vote, holds that Florida's anti-drag law is likely constitutional
Read the full article ↗lawdork.com