legalist
|le-gal-ist|
/ˈliːɡəlɪst/
strict rule- or law-following
Etymology
'legalist' is formed in English from 'legal' + the agent suffix '-ist'. 'Legal' originates from Latin 'legalis', ultimately from 'lex, legis' meaning 'law'.
'lex' (Latin) gave rise to Late Latin 'legalis' meaning 'pertaining to law'; this passed into Old French and Middle English as 'legal', and English later created the agent noun 'legalist' by adding '-ist' to form 'one who adheres to legal principles'.
Originally related to being 'pertaining to law' (legal); over time the derived form came to mean specifically 'one who follows the letter of the law or rules', often with a critical nuance.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a person who adheres strictly to the letter of the law or to a system of rules; an adherent of legalism (often used in religion, ethics, or jurisprudence).
He was criticized as a legalist who cared more about rules than about people's needs.
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Adjective 1
characterized by or showing strict adherence to rules or laws; overly concerned with legal forms or literal interpretations.
The committee adopted a legalist approach, insisting on technical compliance rather than practical solutions.
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Last updated: 2025/11/02 03:39