bylaw

[ bahy-law ]

noun

1. a standing rule governing the regulation of a corporation's or society's internal affairs.
2. a subsidiary law.
3. British. an ordinance of a municipality or community.

bylaw

/ ˈbaɪˌlɔː /

noun

1. a rule made by a local authority for the regulation of its affairs or management of the area it governs
2. a regulation of a company, society, etc
3. a subsidiary law

Word History and Origins

Origin of bylaw¹

First recorded in 1325–75; by- + law ¹; replacing Middle English bilawe, equivalent to by “town” (from Scandinavian; compare Danish by ) + lawe “law”

Word History and Origins

Origin of bylaw¹

C13: probably of Scandinavian origin; compare Old Norse bӯr dwelling, town; see bower ¹, law ¹

Example Sentences

It has also been banned in Epping Forest under City of London Corporation bylaws.

From BBC

The foundation can give “reasonable” financial compensation to its president, according to foundation bylaws.

From Los Angeles Times

Fires are not uncommon in Indian cities as building bylaws are often flouted, residential and commercial areas not clearly segregated and enforcement of safety regulations can be lax.

From BBC

It’s pure laziness when a section office can’t devote attention to a matter everyone wants addressed when recruiting is illegal in its bylaws.

From Los Angeles Times

In June, Port Coquitlam unanimously passed its own bylaws to restrict some public drug consumption.

From BBC

Related Words

• act
• case
• charge
• charter
• code
• constitution
• decision
• decree
• legislation
• mandate
• measure
• order
• precedent
• regulation
• requirement
• ruling
• statute