What is an amendment?

An amendment refers specifically to a change or addition made to the Constitution, which is the fundamental legal document outlining the structure and powers of government as well as the rights of citizens. Amendments are essential to the Constitution because they allow it to evolve over time in response to societal changes and needs.

In the context of U.S. governance, amendments serve to refine or expand upon constitutional principles, clarify ambiguities, and protect individual rights. The process for proposing and ratifying amendments is outlined in Article V of the Constitution, ensuring that changes reflect a significant consensus among the states and the federal government.

The other responses don't accurately define an amendment within this context. For instance, repealing existing laws doesn't pertain directly to amendments, as amendments specifically modify constitutional text rather than statutory laws alone. A form of legal document for treaties pertains more closely to international agreements rather than constitutional amendments. An act of Congress overriding the Constitution contradicts the supremacy of the Constitution itself; Congress can legislate within the bounds of the Constitution but cannot override it. Thus, the correct understanding of an amendment solidly aligns with it being a change or addition to the Constitution.