international law

noun

: a body of rules that control or affect the rights of nations in their relations with each other

Examples of international law in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Trump has repeatedly threatened to target civilian infrastructure, drawing criticism from international law experts, political leaders and human rights groups. Zac Anderson, USA Today, 8 July 2026 In a world order in rupture, international law remains the one language power still has to answer to. Alain Berset, Time, 6 July 2026 Both countries have stepped up efforts to safeguard freedom of navigation and uphold international law in the strait, including hosting a summit with 51 other nations in April. Nadeen Ebrahim, CNN Money, 4 July 2026 Oman has said that any agreement will comply with international law, although the prospect of a financial system on a waterway that typically handles around 20% of the world's oil has sparked alarm. Azhar Sukri, CNBC, 4 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for international law

Word History

First Known Use

1789, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of international law was in 1789

Cite this Entry

“International law.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/international%20law. Accessed 12 Jul. 2026.

Legal Definition

international law

noun
: a body of laws, rules, or legal principles that are based on custom, treaties, or legislation and that control or affect the rights and duties of nations in relation to each other compare internal law

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