Main Entry: law·ful

Pronunciation: \ˈlȯ-fəl\

Function: adjective

Date: 14th century

1 a : being in harmony with the law <a lawful judgment> b : constituted, authorized, or established by law : rightful <lawful institutions>
2 : law-abiding <lawful citizens>

— law·ful·ly \-f(ə-)lē\ adverb

— law·ful·ness \-fəl-nəs\ noun

synonyms lawful, legal, legitimate, licit mean being in accordance with law. lawful may apply to conformity with law of any sort (as natural, divine, common, or canon) <the lawful sovereign>. legal applies to what is sanctioned by law or in conformity with the law, especially as it is written or administered by the courts <legal residents of the state>. legitimate may apply to a legal right or status but also, in extended use, to a right or status supported by tradition, custom, or accepted standards <a perfectly legitimate question about taxes>. licit applies to a strict conformity to the provisions of the law and applies especially to what is regulated by law <the licit use of drugs by doctors>.