bylaw

noun

by·​law ˈbī-ˌlȯ 

variants or less commonly byelaw

1

: a rule adopted by an organization chiefly for the government of its members and the regulation of its affairs

2

: a local ordinance

Synonyms

• ground rule
• reg
• regulation
• rule

Examples of bylaw in a Sentence

the club's bylaws bar any member whose annual dues remain unpaid from voting in the election

Recent Examples on the Web

However, Odom would likely respond that an NCAA bylaw on head coach responsibility should not be the test for enforceability of an NIL contract. —Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 25 Sep. 2024

In an impassioned speech – sketched out on little notecards, no less – Rhys had managed to sway enough of the fence-sitting members, and the bylaws had been amended. —Lizz Schumer, Peoplemag, 12 June 2024

Alternatively, the parties could reach a settlement where the NCAA drops the bylaw and agrees to monetarily compensate Masterson and possibly other players who have been harmed by the bylaw. —Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 13 Sep. 2024

As part of the high-school bylaws, student-athletes and their families will be encouraged to seek legal counsel and tax advice when considering NIL activities. —Jim Turner, Sun Sentinel, 24 July 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English bilawe, probably from Old Norse *bȳlǫg, from Old Norse bȳr town + lag-, lǫg law

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

bylaw

noun

by·​law ˈbī-ˌlȯ 

: a rule adopted by an organization for governing its members and regulating its affairs

Etymology

Middle English bilawe "bylaw," probably from an early Norse compound of bȳr "town" and lǫg "law"

Legal Definition

bylaw

noun

by·​law

ˈbī-ˌlȯ

1

: a rule adopted by an organization chiefly for the government of its members and the management of its affairs

2

: a local ordinance

—often used in pl.

Etymology

Middle English bilage, bilawe local law, probably ultimately from Old Norse bȳr town + lǫg law