[justshutupandtakeit]

Gee, I am sooo upset. Arguing with Fools can make one arrogant even if not already such.

[MileHi]

The appropriate meaning in this context is " A governmental order having the force of law." Or "A principle, rule, or law designed to control or govern behavior."

You still have not provided evidence that that is the correct meaning the founders intended as opposed to "well functioning."