What is the definition of an amendment?

An amendment is defined as a change or addition to the Constitution, which distinguishes it from other legal mechanisms and processes. The Constitution serves as the foundational legal document for the United States, outlining the structure of government and the rights of citizens. When an amendment is proposed and ratified, it alters this foundational document, enabling the legal framework to evolve with changing societal values, norms, and needs.

For context, a new law passed by Congress refers to ordinary legislation rather than a constitutional amendment. Legislative acts can change laws, but they do not modify the Constitution itself. A presidential order, such as an executive order, is a directive issued by the president and does not require the same rigorous process as amending the Constitution. Similarly, judicial rulings, while they can interpret constitutional principles, do not constitute amendments; they are decisions made by courts that clarify the application of existing laws, including the Constitution. Therefore, the essence of an amendment lies in its role as a significant modification to the constitutional text.