Definition

Proper noun: - Charles-Louis de Secondat, Baron de La Brède et de Montesquieu: The full name and title of an 18th-century French political philosopher, social commentator, and jurist. He is best known for his theory of the separation of powers, which profoundly influenced modern political thought and the framing of constitutions, particularly that of the United States.

Usage

• This term is used exclusively as a proper noun to refer to the historical figure. It is typically used in formal, historical, or academic contexts when citing his full title.
• Example:

Advanced Usage

• The name is often shortened to simply "Montesquieu" in general discourse. The full title is used for precision or formal reference.
• Example:

Variants and Related Words

• Montesquieu (Proper noun): The most common shorthand reference for the philosopher.
• Charles de Secondat (Proper noun): An alternative reference using his given name and family name.

Synonyms

• Montesquieu
• Charles-Louis de Secondat

Related Phrases and Concepts

• Separation of powers: The political doctrine, most famously articulated by Montesquieu in his work , that governmental authority should be divided into legislative, executive, and judicial branches to prevent the concentration of power.
• The Spirit of the Laws (De l'esprit des lois): The seminal 1748 treatise by Montesquieu which analyzes the principles of government and law.

Noun

1. French political philosopher who advocated the separation of executive and legislative and judicial powers (1689-1755)