DictionaryRoot: lex
Latin
lex
law or enacted rule
Forms
- lex
- leg- — The longer form used before Latin endings.
Origin
An old Latin word; its deeper relationship to words for gathering or choosing is debated.
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adjective
legal
LEE-gul/ˈliːɡl/
Recognized within the system of law.
Etymology
The law root first gave legal the broad meaning “pertaining to law.” Its meaning then extended to “permitted by law,” distinguishing lawful conduct from things merely connected with the legal system.