pragmatic sanction

Found in Anh - Anh (Wordnet)

Definition Noun : 1. A sovereign decree or ordinance issued by a ruler, especially a Roman or Holy Roman Emperor, that addresses a matter of fundamental importance to the state and acquires the force of fundamental law. This term historically refers to a solemn, irrevocable pronouncement on a critical issue of state, such as succession or territorial rights, intended to be permanently binding....