First Known Use: 1825
Dictionary
laissez–faire
noun lais·sez–faire \ˌle-ˌsā-ˈfer, ˌlā-, -ˌzā-\
economics : a policy that allows businesses to operate with very little interference from the government
Full Definition of LAISSEZ-FAIRE
1
: a doctrine opposing governmental interference in economic affairs beyond the minimum necessary for the maintenance of peace and property rights
2
: a philosophy or practice characterized by a usually deliberate abstention from direction or interference especially with individual freedom of choice and action
— laissez–faire adjective
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Origin of LAISSEZ-FAIRE
French laissez faire, imperative of laisser faire to let (people) do (as they choose)
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