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

However, if one views memes as a piece of media with disproportionately high influence on young minds, then the legality of Stake’s watermark campaign is much more murky.

From Slate

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

But beyond that, the legality of recording calls is never simple.

From Slate

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

From BBC

By its own terms, the ruling applies only to Mississippi, throwing the legality of its voting procedures into question just 11 days before the election.

From Slate

Related Words

• validity