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

Party members met for their first official Convention in Waltham on Sunday, hosted by former Lt. Gov. Kerry Healey, to elect officers, approve party bylaws, and begin the process of crafting a state party platform. —Matthew Medsger, Boston Herald, 5 May 2025

Segerstrom was a factor in the race for the Golden West League championship but was found to have violated CIF Southern Section bylaws. —Steve Fryer, Oc Register, 29 Apr. 2025

Officer terms typically are one year but check your HOA bylaws to be sure. —Kelly G. Richardson, Orange County Register, 21 Mar. 2025

In 2022, the group voted to amend the company’s bylaws to allow the CEO’s age limit to rise from 75 to 80, the publication says. —Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 17 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