Words have meaning. And their meaning doesn't change.

The quote “Words have meaning. And their meaning doesn't change” by Antonin Scalia reflects his firm belief in textualism, a legal philosophy that emphasizes interpreting legal documents—especially the Constitution—according to the original meaning of the words at the time they were written. Scalia asserts that the meaning of language is fixed and should not be reinterpreted based on changing societal values or modern preferences. This perspective underlines his view that the role of judges is to apply the law, not to reshape it.

Antonin Scalia, a long-serving U.S. Supreme Court Justice, was known for his strict originalist interpretation of the Constitution. He often argued against the idea of a “living Constitution” that evolves over time through judicial reinterpretation. In this quote, he underscores the idea that legal clarity and stability depend on honoring the original definitions and intent behind the words used in laws and foundational texts.

The statement also speaks to a broader philosophy about language and interpretation. Scalia believed that allowing words to be redefined over time risks turning legal texts into vague, shifting frameworks, which could undermine the rule of law and give judges too much power to impose personal beliefs. For him, consistency in the meaning of words was essential to maintaining judicial restraint and protecting democratic processes.

Ultimately, this quote captures Scalia’s legacy as a champion of judicial discipline and constitutional fidelity. By insisting that words retain their original meaning, he aimed to preserve the integrity of the legal system and ensure that changes in law would come from legislators, not the bench. His views continue to influence contemporary debates on constitutional interpretation and the proper role of courts in a democratic society.