blue law

noun

1. any puritanical law that forbids certain practices, especially drinking or working on Sunday, dancing, etc.

Word History and Origins

Origin of blue law¹

An Americanism dating back to 1775–85

Example Sentences

Like bootleggers and Baptists both benefiting from blue laws, the extreme left and extreme right need each other to justify their catastrophizing.

From Los Angeles Times

Sportsmen who oppose the laws see them as a vestige of the blue laws dating to the 17th century and limiting what activities citizens can engage in on a day governments once dedicated to prayer.

From Seattle Times

In a society in which Sundays are no longer demarcated by blue laws and quieter rhythms, churches face increasing competition year-round from events like youth soccer tournaments.

From New York Times

Although Pat was not religious, he claimed he had converted to Seventh-Day Adventism so he could get a religious exemption to keep his store open on Sundays, when other groceries were closed by blue laws.

From Washington Post

The ban on early Sunday alcohol sales remained in place even after the Legislature in 2019 voted to eliminate North Dakota’s so-called blue laws that prohibited retailers from opening Sunday morning.

From Washington Times