<p><strong>Noun</strong></p><ul><li>strict adherence, or the principle of strict adherence, to law or prescription, especially to the letter rather than the spirit.</li><li>the doctrine that salvation is gained through good works.</li><li>the judging of conduct in terms of adherence to precise laws.</li><li>(initial capital letter) (in Chinese philosophy) the principles and practices of a school of political theorists advocating strict legal control over all activities, a system of rewards and punishments uniform for all classes, and an absolute monarchy.</li></ul>