declaratory

adjective

de·​clar·​a·​to·​ry di-ˈkler-ə-ˌtȯr-ē How to pronounce declaratory (audio)
1
: serving to declare, set forth, or explain
2
a
: declaring what is the existing law
declaratory statute
b
: declaring a legal right or interpretation
a declaratory judgment

Examples of declaratory in a Sentence

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.
Walgreens will now also move to dismiss a related declaratory judgment action filed in U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas. Mark Faithfull, Forbes.com, 23 Apr. 2025 The declaratory ruling request is a first step in legal action, but is not a lawsuit per se. Katy Golvala, Hartford Courant, 12 Mar. 2025 The lawsuit seeks a declaratory judgement absolving Wallace of liability in the matter, as well as damages for defamation, including at least $6 million in punitive damages. Gene Maddaus, Variety, 5 Feb. 2025 Sun Sentinel The new lawsuit seeks a declaratory judgment and an injunction through the more-normal process of going to circuit court. Jim Saunders, Sun Sentinel, 24 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for declaratory

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Declaratory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/declaratory. Accessed 10 Jun. 2025.

Legal Definition

declaratory

adjective
de·​clar·​a·​to·​ry di-ˈklar-ə-ˌtōr-ē How to pronounce declaratory (audio)
: serving to declare, set forth, or explain: as
a
: declaring what is the existing law
b
: declaring a legal right or interpretation
declaratory relief
see also declaratory judgment at judgment sense 1a
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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