bylaw

noun

by·​law ˈbī-ˌlȯ 

variants or less commonly byelaw

1

: a rule adopted by an organization chiefly for the government of its members and the regulation of its affairs

2

: a local ordinance

Synonyms

• ground rule
• reg
• regulation
• rule

Examples of bylaw in a Sentence

the club's bylaws bar any member whose annual dues remain unpaid from voting in the election

Recent Examples on the Web

In many major cities—such as those in France, Spain and North America—new occupancy bylaws, mandatory property registrations and rental day limits are being enforced. —Daniil Demchuk, Forbes.com, 28 Mar. 2025

There is no set number for any class, but the Hall of Fame’s current selection process bylaws stipulate that between four and eight new members will be selected. —Jill Martin, CNN, 6 Feb. 2025

The Lions are also looking for two bylaw proposals for the 2025 season at the annual league meeting. —Scott Thompson, Fox News, 19 Mar. 2025

Do company bylaws provide for indemnification protection for officers and employees? —Allbusiness, Forbes, 4 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English bilawe, probably from Old Norse *bȳlǫg, from Old Norse bȳr town + lag-, lǫg law

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for bylaw

• aa
• aha
• bashaw
• bradshaw
• byelaw
• chainsaw
• cheraw
• coleslaw
• crenshaw
• dada
• esau
• foresaw

Kids Definition

bylaw

noun

by·​law ˈbī-ˌlȯ 

: a rule adopted by an organization for governing its members and regulating its affairs

Etymology

Middle English bilawe "bylaw," probably from an early Norse compound of bȳr "town" and lǫg "law"

Legal Definition

bylaw

noun

by·​law

ˈbī-ˌlȯ

1

: a rule adopted by an organization chiefly for the government of its members and the management of its affairs

2

: a local ordinance

—often used in pl.

Etymology

Middle English bilage, bilawe local law, probably ultimately from Old Norse bȳr town + lǫg law