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

College football bylaws require us to remind you that Arizona State was picked dead last — 16 out of 16 — in the Big 12’s preseason media poll. —Justin Williams, The Athletic, 21 Nov. 2024

Now, support of Israel is a permanent auxiliary program, written into the congregation’s bylaws. —Lois K. Solomon, Sun Sentinel, 5 Oct. 2024

Context: Since the rise of Airbnb and other short-term rental sites, many condo complexes have updated bylaws to prohibit owners from leasing their units without approval from the homeowners association. —Thomas Wheatley, Axios, 12 Sep. 2024

This faction claimed longstanding members had violated several bylaws and requirements, such as changing the group’s budget without full approval and failing to conduct proper financial audits. —Jeffrey S. Solochek, Orlando Sentinel, 22 Nov. 2024

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

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