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lawful

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The definition of lawful is something that is legal or that is permitted or accepted by governing principles and rules of law.

(adjective)

Driving within the speed limit and obeying the rules of the road is an example of lawful behavior.
A child born within the confines of a legal marriage is an example of a lawful child.

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See lawful in Webster's New World College Dictionary

adjective

in conformity with the principles of the law; permitted by law: a lawful act
recognized by or established by law: lawful debts
obeying the law; law-abiding

Related Forms:

lawfully adverb
lawfulness noun

See lawful in American Heritage Dictionary 4

adjective

Being within the law; allowed by law: lawful methods of dissent.
Established, sanctioned, or recognized by the law: the lawful heir.
Obeying the law; law-abiding.

Related Forms:

lawˈful·ly adverb

lawˈful·ness noun

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