Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

reserved power

noun

/rɪˈzɜrvd ˈpaʊər/

Definition

A power or authority that is retained by an entity or individual, often specifically indicated in legal documents or constitutions.

Examples

The state has the reserved powers to regulate education.
Reserved powers ensure that local governments can make decisions that best suit their communities.
In the U.S. Constitution, the Tenth Amendment emphasizes the concept of reserved powers.

Meaning

Reserved powers refer to those powers that are not explicitly granted to a governing body or individual and thus are kept for the state or the people.