positive law

noun

1. customary law or law enacted by governmental authority (as distinguished from natural law ).

Word History and Origins

Origin of positive law¹

Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400

Example Sentences

It was not merely by the promise, but also by the gift of life, that the positive law was converted into the nature of a covenant.

From Project Gutenberg

We have a positive law prescribing our conduct and the manner and measure of expressing our gratitude to God.

From Project Gutenberg

As no positive law against libels existed, they fell under the indefinite class of misdemeanours.

From Project Gutenberg

It's so odious that nothing can be suffered to support it but positive law.

From Project Gutenberg

Under the shelter of an absurd positive law, those of equity and prudence might, it was thought, be safely despised.

From Project Gutenberg