What Is the Term Used to Describe the Seven Divisions of the Constitution?

The seven divisions of the United States Constitution are called "articles." The word "article" derives from the Latin word "artus," meaning "limbs." Essentially, individual articles create a whole work. In a legal document, each article focuses on a separate topic. The U.S. Constitution, a legal document that establishes the structure of the government, contains seven articles addressing seven different subjects. Further refinement of the articles occurs in sub-headings called sections.

Article I establishes the legislative powers of Congress, containing a House and a Senate. Article II gives executive powers to the president of the United States. Article III creates one supreme court holding the ultimate judicial power in the country. Article IV discusses the powers of the states to govern versus the power of the federal government. Article V outlines the process of adding amendments to the Constitution. Article VI makes the Constitution the highest law in the land, which must be upheld by federal and state officials. Article VII affirms the ratification of the Constitution by a convention of nine U.S. states, and lists the names of those signing the agreement.