statute
Statute (noun) means a formal law passed by a parliament, congress, or other legislative body. Example: “The new statute makes it illegal to text while driving.”
How to use statute
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA written law, or a formal rule an organization sets for itself.
Easy to mix up with "statue" (a carved likeness) purely by spelling — they are unrelated words.
Word forms
statutes plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The new _____ makes it illegal to text while driving.
Etymology
From Old French statut, from Late Latin statutum, "a thing decided" — from statuere, "to set up or establish."
Synonyms
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Rhymes for statute
See all rhymes for statute →Frequently asked questions
What does “statute” mean?
The word “statute” means a formal law passed by a parliament, congress, or other legislative body. In plain terms, a written law, or a formal rule an organization sets for itself.
How do you pronounce “statute”?
“Statute” is pronounced STATYOOT (/ˈstæt͡ʃuːt/ in IPA).
How do you use “statute” in a sentence?
Here is “statute” used in a sentence: “The new statute makes it illegal to text while driving.”
What part of speech is “statute”?
“Statute” is a noun.
Where does the word “statute” come from?
The word “statute” comes from Late Latin. From Old French statut, from Late Latin statutum, "a thing decided" — from statuere, "to set up or establish.".
Is “statute” a common word?
“Statute” is a fairly common word in modern English.
How many meanings does “statute” have?
“Statute” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a formal law passed by a parliament, congress, or other legislative body.
What is the difference between a statute and a law?
A statute specifically refers to a formal law passed by a parliament, congress, or other legislative body, making it a more precise term than "law," which can also cover common law, regulations, and other legal rules not enacted by a legislature.
What is the difference between a statute and a bylaw or organizational statute?
A statute can also refer to a rule set out in the official governing document of an organization, such as a university or club, separate from the legislative sense of a national or state law. Context usually makes clear which meaning applies.
What is a common legal phrase using statute?
A frequent legal phrase is "statute of limitations," referring to the time limit set by law for bringing a legal action, which draws on the formal, legislated nature of a statute.