Checks And Balances Definition

noun

A system by which governmental powers are distributed among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches with each branch having specified procedures for influencing and restraining actions taken by the others: organizational principles for such a system are set forth in the U.S. Constitution.

Webster's New World

Any system for balancing power, protecting against fraud or error, etc. in an institution, business, etc.

Webster's New World

A system of distribution of power among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government, in relatively equal proportions, such that each branch has the ability to counter the actions of the other two and thus prevent the entire government from being controlled by any single branch. See also separation of powers.

Webster's New World Law

(idiomatic, politics) A system for multiple parties wherein each has some control over the actions of each of the others.

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