Constitution Meaning
Constitution Definition & Usage
The fundamental set of laws or principles governing a nation or organization, which outlines the rights of the people and the structure of government.
Examples
- "The United States Constitution, ratified in 1787, is the supreme law of the land."
- "The company’s constitution dictates the roles and responsibilities of its board members."
- "They amended the constitution to provide greater protections for individual freedoms."
- "The country's constitution was drafted by a group of visionary leaders after years of struggle for independence."
- "In a democracy, the constitution ensures that power is distributed fairly among various branches of government."
A person’s physical or mental state, often referring to their general health or fitness.
Examples
- "After a long period of illness, her constitution had become quite fragile."
- "He was of a strong constitution, rarely falling sick even in harsh conditions."
- "The hike was tough, but his constitution allowed him to keep going without much trouble."
- "A good diet and exercise help maintain a strong constitution throughout life."
- "She struggled with the constitution of a runner but was determined to improve her stamina."
Cultural Context
The term 'constitution' has its roots in Latin, where 'constitutio' meant 'establishment' or 'setting up'. In modern usage, it typically refers to the set of laws that govern a nation or organization, establishing the framework of authority and rights. The concept of a constitution has deep historical roots, particularly in Western political thought, dating back to documents like the Magna Carta and the U.S. Constitution, both of which have influenced governance systems worldwide. The second meaning, relating to a person's health or fitness, is less commonly used but still prevalent in literature and medical discussions.
The Strength of a Constitution
Story
The Strength of a Constitution
In a quiet village at the foot of the mountains, a young woman named Eliza was known for her resilience. Though she had endured many hardships, from a difficult childhood to the demanding work of caring for the village’s elders, Eliza’s constitution was admired by all. It wasn't just that she was strong physically, though she could carry heavy loads without breaking a sweat—it was her mental toughness, her ability to stand firm in the face of adversity, that made her a local legend. One evening, after a particularly harsh winter storm, the village council met to discuss how they would rebuild the road that had been washed out. There was a great deal of disagreement among the villagers, with some wanting to cut costs and others demanding better materials to ensure the road’s longevity. It was then that Eliza stood up. She had no title, no position of authority, but her presence was enough. As she spoke, her words carried the weight of someone who had survived many storms, both literal and figurative. 'We need a constitution,' Eliza said. 'A clear agreement about what we stand for and how we will act together in times of crisis.' Her words resonated deeply with the villagers, many of whom respected her not just for her physical stamina but for her unwavering principles. In the end, the village adopted a new constitution, one that defined how decisions would be made fairly and transparently. But Eliza's true strength, the thing that everyone admired, was not just in her physical endurance but in her ability to endure hardship with grace and conviction. Years later, as she grew older and passed on her knowledge to the next generation, Eliza’s constitution became the foundation of the village’s unity. She had taught them that a community, like a person, needs a strong constitution to endure whatever challenges lie ahead.
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