law

Universal Words noun system of rules 1 (also the law) [U] the whole system of rules that everyone in a country or society must obey: If they entered the building they would be breaking the law. * In Sweden it is against the law to hit a child. * Defence attorneys can use any means within the law to get their client off. * British schools are now required by law to publish their exam results. * The reforms have recently become law. * Do not think you are above the law (= think that you cannot be punished by the law). * the need for better law enforcement * (humorous) Kate's word was law in the Brown household. 2 [U] a particular branch of the law: company / tax law * He specializes in international law. seealsoCANONLAW, CASELAW, CIVILLAW, COMMONLAW, PRIVATELAW, STATUTELAW one rule 3 [C] ~ (on sth)