noun
law
LAW/lɔː/
A rule governing how conduct or activity proceeds.
The officer enforces the law against driving faster than the posted speed limit.
Etymology
Old Norse lag supplies the image of something laid down or fixed. Applied to an authoritative rule, that image makes a law something established for people to follow.
In context
it is a matter for not only Police Scotland but the Scottish Police Authority to ensure that officers are work ready, well trained and competent in their application of the law
More examples
- There is a law against dumping trash in the river.
- Local zoning laws limit the height of new buildings.
- Even powerful officials must obey the law.
Forms
law · laws
lawful adjective — Allowed or permitted by the law.
lawless adjective — Not controlled by or obeying laws.
Similar words
- rule
- Broader term that includes informal instructions and organizational requirements.
- regulation
- Usually a detailed requirement issued by an official authority.
- statute
- Specifically a written law enacted by a legislature.