laissez-faire
|lais·sez·faire|
🇺🇸
/ˌlɛseɪ ˈfɛr/
🇬🇧
/ˌleɪseɪ ˈfeə/
non-interference
Etymology
'laissez-faire' originates from French, specifically the phrase 'laissez faire,' where 'laissez' meant 'let' and 'faire' meant 'do.'
'laissez faire' was adopted into English in the 18th century to describe a policy of minimal governmental interference in the economic affairs of individuals and society.
Initially, it meant 'let do,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'non-interference in economic matters.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
an economic system in which transactions between private parties are free from government intervention such as regulation, privileges, tariffs, and subsidies.
The country adopted a laissez-faire approach to its economic policies.
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Noun 2
a policy or attitude of letting things take their own course, without interfering.
His laissez-faire attitude towards his children's education was surprising.
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Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45