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Definition of lawfulness
lawfulness
/ˈlɔːfəlnəs/
law · ful · ness
Adverb:lawfully
•Adjective:lawful
lawfulness Lexical Profile
CEFR
B2
Grade
8
Tier
2
Usage
Top 10k
Syllables
3
lawfulness Game Scores & Validity
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WWF
Wordle Guess
• noun
1
The quality or state of being permitted by, conforming to, or recognized by the law.
Example
"The defense attorney challenged the lawfulness of the warrantless search conducted by the police."
2
Habitual obedience to laws, rules, or established social order.
Example
"Civic education programs aim to foster a sense of responsibility and lawfulness among young citizens."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for lawfulness Antonyms
View all antonyms for lawfulness• Rhymes for lawfulness
Word Origin & Etymology
Formed in Middle English from the adjective 'lawful' and the suffix '-ness', ultimately tracing back to Old English 'lagu' and Old Norse 'lagu' (meaning 'something laid down or fixed').
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Lawfulness. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/lawfulness