civil law

noun

1. the body of laws of a state or nation regulating ordinary private matters, as distinct from laws regulating criminal, political, or military matters.
2. Roman History. the body of law proper to the city or state of Rome, as distinct from that common to all nations. Compare jus civile.
3. systems of law influenced significantly and in various ways by Roman law, especially as contained in the Corpus Juris Civilis, as distinct from the common law and canon or ecclesiastical law.

civil law

noun

1. the law of a state relating to private and civilian affairs
2. the body of law in force in ancient Rome, esp the law applicable to private citizens
3. any system of law based on the Roman system as distinguished from the common law and canon law
4. the law of a state as distinguished from international law

Other Words From

• civil-law adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of civil law¹

late Middle English word dating back to 1375–1425

Example Sentences

But Texas lawmakers, intent on being the first to enact a ban with teeth, had already passed a harsh civil law using a novel legal strategy that circumvented Roe v.

From Salon

The former first minster has sued the government for misfeasance – a civil law term that means the wrongful exercise of lawful authority.

From BBC

The Detroit Metro Times reported that he taught himself criminal and civil law during his time in prison, and had since developed “a long history of challenging the judicial system” by filing multiple lawsuits.

From BBC

But in practice, they are treated according to the civil law of the State of Israel, which formally applies only to territory within the state’s borders.

From New York Times

Have you, a relative, or a close friend ever had any education, training, or work experience in the legal field, including but not limited to practicing criminal or civil law?

From Seattle Times