legality

noun

le·​gal·​i·​ty li-ˈga-lə-tē How to pronounce legality (audio)
plural legalities
1
: attachment to or observance of law
2
: the quality or state of being legal : lawfulness
3
legalities plural : obligations imposed by law

Examples of legality in a Sentence

the senator questioned the legality of the proposed surveillance operation
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Both the majority and the dissenters advance plausible arguments regarding the legality of Southern’s pricing practices under the RPA. Alden Abbott, Forbes, 13 Dec. 2024 Elton John minced no words explaining his stance against the legality of marijuana in America and Canada. Jack Dunn, Variety, 12 Dec. 2024 But the legality and ethics of the transaction has long been disputed. Eli Wizevich, Smithsonian Magazine, 6 Dec. 2024 The Supreme Court's 2010 Citizens United decision, which upheld the legality of unlimited independent political spending by corporations and unions, continues to be a significant obstacle to overhauling campaign finance laws. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 30 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for legality 

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of legality was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near legality

Cite this Entry

“Legality.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/legality. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

legality

noun
le·​gal·​i·​ty li-ˈgal-ət-ē How to pronounce legality (audio)
plural legalities
1
: the quality or state of being legal : lawfulness
2
: something that is required by law

Legal Definition

legality

noun
le·​gal·​i·​ty li-ˈga-lə-tē How to pronounce legality (audio)
plural legalities
1
: attachment to or observance of law
2
: the quality or state of being legal : lawfulness
3
plural : obligations imposed by law

More from Merriam-Webster on legality

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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