Dictionary entry

Magna Charta

Webster's Dictionary 1913

‖Mag″na Char″ta (?). 1. The great Charter, so called, obtained by the English barons from King John, A. D. 1215. This name is also given to the charter granted to the people of England in the ninth year of Henry III., and confirmed by Edward I.

2. Hence, a fundamental constitution which guaranties rights and privileges.