Constitution
Definition
The fundamental set of laws and principles that establishes the structure, powers, and limits of a government.
Explanation
A constitution defines how a country is governed, what powers different branches of government hold, and what rights citizens are guaranteed. The US Constitution is a single written document ratified in 1788. The UK does not have a single written constitution but relies on a collection of statutes, court judgments, and conventions. Canada's constitution includes the Constitution Act of 1867 and the Constitution Act of 1982, which includes the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Australia's constitution was enacted in 1901 and establishes the Commonwealth of Australia as a federal system. Constitutions can usually only be changed through special amendment processes, making them more stable than ordinary laws.
Why this matters for your test
You should know what your country's constitution is, when it was established, and what key rights and structures it defines.
Source: General civics terminology