legality

noun

le·​gal·​i·​ty li-ˈga-lə-tē How to pronounce legality (audio)
plural legalities
Synonyms of legalitynext
1
: attachment to or observance of law
2
: the quality or state of being legal : lawfulness
3
legalities plural : obligations imposed by law

Synonyms of legality

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Examples of legality in a Sentence

the senator questioned the legality of the proposed surveillance operation
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The article also describes frustrations over streaming legality issues, as games were not initially available to air commercially in public places like bars. — Emily Ohman, New York Times, 26 Aug. 2026 Neither Talwani’s decision nor the Supreme Court ruling upheld the policy’s legality. — Luke Fountain, CNBC, 26 Aug. 2026 This order could still be challenged in the future, as the Supreme Court didn't weigh in on the legality, just the ability to challenge the order. — Gabriela Vidal, CBS News, 25 Aug. 2026 Administration officials have defended the legality of the military campaign. — Zac Anderson, USA Today, 24 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for legality

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of legality was in the 15th century

Rhymes for legality

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Browse Nearby Words

legalistic
legality
legalization
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Cite this Entry

“Legality.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/legality. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

legality

noun
le·​gal·​i·​ty li-ˈgal-ət-ē How to pronounce legality (audio)
plural legalities
1
: the quality or state of being legal : lawfulness
2
: something that is required by law

Legal Definition

legality

noun
le·​gal·​i·​ty li-ˈga-lə-tē How to pronounce legality (audio)
plural legalities
1
: attachment to or observance of law
2
: the quality or state of being legal : lawfulness
3
plural : obligations imposed by law
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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