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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Legal scholars have warned that attacks on infrastructure with wide civilian use in some circumstances could constitute a war crime under international law. Npr Staff, NPR, 17 July 2026 Transit tolls on international waters are not allowed under international law, but fees are permitted for certain services. Erin Mansfield, USA Today, 15 July 2026 The Strait of Hormuz is an international waterway where vessels have the right of free passage under international law. Elisabeth Buchwald, CNN Money, 13 July 2026 Irish police said that investigators are working with international law enforcement partners as the murder investigation continues. Michael Dorgan, FOXNews.com, 12 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 22 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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