Meaning of blue law | Babel Free

Definitions

1. A restrictive religious-based law in colonial New England, especially preventing leisure activities on a Sunday.
   Canada, US, historical
2. Any puritanical or restrictive law, especially one that prohibits or restricts commercial activity on a Sunday.
   Canada, US, broadly

Examples

“Years ago, because of the Blue Laws, we couldn't serve⟳ drinks on Sunday over the bar, so we set⟳ up tables in the aisles. And we'd have⟳ different acts on a stage⟳ up front.”

“[I]t's actually a way around the Swiss blue laws demanding that shops close⟳ from Saturday afternoon until Monday morning. The laws apply⟳ everywhere but the airport, so they built a massive supermarket in the Swiss Air terminal.”

CEFR level