international law

noun

: a body of rules that control or affect the rights of nations in their relations with each other

Examples of international law in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Otherwise, under international law, the quarantine would be deemed an act of war. Time, 28 Oct. 2025 Several Democrats are warning that the strikes could breach international law. Michael Dorgan, FOXNews.com, 24 Oct. 2025 Democrats have insisted the strikes violate international law. Dan Gooding, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 Oct. 2025 Accountability for the Israeli leadership’s grievous violations of international law is necessary. Melanie Goodfellow, Deadline, 23 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for international law

Word History

First Known Use

1789, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of international law was in 1789

Cite this Entry

“International law.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/international%20law. Accessed 29 Oct. 2025.

Legal Definition

international law

noun
: a body of laws, rules, or legal principles that are based on custom, treaties, or legislation and that control or affect the rights and duties of nations in relation to each other compare internal law

More from Merriam-Webster on international law

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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