also: けんぼう
The fundamental law of a state or political system, as in 日本国憲法. This is the main modern meaning.
The Constitution of Japan came into effect in 1947.
Debate continues in the Diet over constitutional revision.
rules; regulations; basic principles
Less common than the political sense; used for fundamental rules or governing principles of a group, household, or system, often with a slightly formal or figurative feel.
"No looking at phones during meals" is the rule in our house.
This country enacted a new constitution soon after independence.
Amending the constitution requires a vote in the Diet.
The law was criticized for violating the constitution.
Politicians have a duty to uphold the constitution.
This ruling was handed down based on the constitution.
new constitution; postwar constitution of Japan
former constitution; Meiji Constitution