noun
Uncommon
jurisprudence
JOOR-rihs-proo-duhns
Jurisprudence (noun) means the theoretical study of law and the principles underlying legal systems. Example: “She wrote her thesis on the jurisprudence of human rights law.”
noun
1
The theoretical study of law and the principles underlying legal systems.
"She wrote her thesis on the jurisprudence of human rights law."
2
A body of judicial decisions on a particular subject; case law.
"There is considerable jurisprudence to the effect that only the evidence that was before the initial decision-maker should be considered by the Court on judicial review."
— J. Dubé, Chopra v. Canada (Treasury Board), 1999 CanLII 8044 (FC) (1999)
"The concept of consent can be complicated, so much so that it is the subject of considerable jurisprudence and a formal definition in the Criminal Code."
— R. W. Elson, R v Bear-Knight, 2021 SKQB 308 (2021)
"Modern contract jurisprudence has evolved significantly over the past century."
How to use jurisprudence
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe academic study of law, or the collected rulings that shape how law is applied.
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Word forms
- Plural
- jurisprudences
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She wrote her thesis on the _____ of human rights law.
Etymology
From Latin iurisprudentia, "skill in law," combining ius, "law," with prudentia, "knowledge, foresight."
Synonyms
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law
legal philosophy
Related words
Rhymes for jurisprudence
See all rhymes for jurisprudence →Frequently asked questions
What does “jurisprudence” mean?
The word “jurisprudence” means the theoretical study of law and the principles underlying legal systems. In plain terms, the academic study of law, or the collected rulings that shape how law is applied.
How do you pronounce “jurisprudence”?
“Jurisprudence” is pronounced JOOR-rihs-proo-duhns (/ˈd͡ʒʊəɹɪsˌpɹuːdəns/ in IPA).
How do you use “jurisprudence” in a sentence?
Here is “jurisprudence” used in a sentence: “She wrote her thesis on the jurisprudence of human rights law.”
What part of speech is “jurisprudence”?
“Jurisprudence” is a noun.
Where does the word “jurisprudence” come from?
The word “jurisprudence” comes from Latin. From Latin iurisprudentia, "skill in law," combining ius, "law," with prudentia, "knowledge, foresight.".
Is “jurisprudence” a common word?
“Jurisprudence” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “jurisprudence” have?
“Jurisprudence” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the theoretical study of law and the principles underlying legal systems.
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