Dictionary
lawful
adjective law·ful \ˈlȯ-fəl\
: allowed by the law
: according to the law
Full Definition of LAWFUL
1
a : being in harmony with the law <a lawful judgment> b : constituted, authorized, or established by law : rightful <lawful institutions>
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First Known Use of LAWFUL
14th century
Related to LAWFUL
- Synonyms
- legal, legit [slang], legitimate, licit
Synonym Discussion of LAWFUL
lawful, legal, legitimate, licit mean being in accordance with law. lawful may apply to conformity with law of any sort (as natural, divine, common, or canon) <the lawful sovereign>. legal applies to what is sanctioned by law or in conformity with the law, especially as it is written or administered by the courts <legal residents of the state>. legitimate may apply to a legal right or status but also, in extended use, to a right or status supported by tradition, custom, or accepted standards <a perfectly legitimate question about taxes>. licit applies to a strict conformity to the provisions of the law and applies especially to what is regulated by law <the licit use of drugs by doctors>.
Other Legal Terms
LAWFULNESS Defined for Kids
lawful
adjective law·ful \ˈlȯ-fəl\
Definition of LAWFUL for Kids
1
: permitted by law <lawful conduct>
2
: recognized by law <She's the property's lawful owner.>
— law·ful·ly \-fə-lē\ adverb
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