age of majority

: the age at which a person is granted by law the rights (as ability to sue) and responsibilities (as liability under contract) of an adult

called also full age

Note: Age of majority is set by statute, in most states at 18. The age at which a person may perform various acts, as legally drink alcoholic beverages or make a valid will, does not necessarily correspond with the age of majority.

Dictionary Entries Near age of majority

Cite this Entry

“Age of majority.” Merriam-Webster.com Legal Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/legal/age%20of%20majority. Accessed 16 Nov. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!