legality

[ lee-gal-i-tee ]

noun

, plural le·gal·i·ties.

1. the state or quality of being in conformity with the law; lawfulness.

   Synonyms: validity, legitimacy

2. attachment to or observance of law.
3. Usually legalities. a duty or obligation imposed by law.
4. Theology. reliance on good works for salvation rather than on free grace.

legality

/ lɪˈɡælɪtɪ /

noun

1. the state or quality of being legal or lawful
2. adherence to legal principles

Other Words From

• pseu·do·le·gal·i·ty noun plural pseudolegalities

Word History and Origins

Origin of legality¹

1425–75; late Middle English legalite < Medieval Latin lēgālitās. See legal, -ity

Example Sentences

HuntingCrossbows replied to our query about the legality of the weapon it sold us and other knives for sale on its website by saying "these are cosplay or display knives for decoration use only".

From BBC

But in a hearing on Monday, Musk’s lawyer Chris Gober tried to defend the giveaway’s legality, revealing that recipients are not chosen at random.

From Salon

In some cases, medical teams are wasting precious time debating legalities and creating documentation, preparing for the possibility that they’ll need to explain their actions to a jury and judge.

From Salon

Nobody was sure of what the legality was... even though they're used for other things.

From BBC

Lawrence Noble, a former general counsel at the Federal Election Commission, has questioned the legality of Mr Musk's giveaways in the election cycle.

From BBC

Related Words

• validity