Formal written laws enacted by a legislative body, as distinguished from common law or constitutional law. These are specific rules or regulations that have been officially established and codified.
From Latin statutum meaning 'something set up or established,' from statuere 'to set up, place, or establish.' The word entered English via Old French statut in the 14th century, reflecting the development of formal legal systems.
Unlike common law which develops through court decisions, statutes are created proactively by legislators trying to address specific issues. The famous 'Statute of Frauds' from 1677 still influences contract law today, requiring certain agreements to be in writing.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.