legality

noun

le·​gal·​i·​ty li-ˈga-lə-tē 

plural legalities

1

: attachment to or observance of law

2

: the quality or state of being legal : lawfulness

3

legalities plural : obligations imposed by law

Synonyms

• lawfulness
• legitimacy

Examples of legality in a Sentence

the senator questioned the legality of the proposed surveillance operation

Recent Examples on the Web

On Tuesday, the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals—recognized as one of the most conservative appeals courts in the country—heard arguments questioning the legality of Nasdaq’s board diversity rule. —Ruth Umoh, Fortune, 15 May 2024

The reluctance of Texas lawmakers to expand the legality of marijuana in the state isn’t stopping a growing industry of niche cannabis producers who see opportunity in the Lone Star state. —Christopher Torres, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 15 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

legality

noun

le·​gal·​i·​ty li-ˈgal-ət-ē 

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 

plural legalities

1

: attachment to or observance of law

2

: the quality or state of being legal : lawfulness

3

plural : obligations imposed by law