declaratory

adjective

de·​clar·​a·​to·​ry di-ˈkler-ə-ˌtȯr-ē How to pronounce declaratory (audio)
1
: serving to declare, set forth, or explain
2
a
: declaring what is the existing law
declaratory statute
b
: declaring a legal right or interpretation
a declaratory judgment

Examples of declaratory 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.
The suit alleges breach of fiduciary duty, fraud and negligent misrepresentation and seeks declaratory and injunctive relief. — Chaewon Chung july 24, Sacbee.com, 24 July 2026 The lawsuit was filed on October 25, 2023, and asserted causes of action for declaratory relief, tortious interference, and for an injunction against the Hus. — Jay Adkisson, Forbes.com, 23 July 2026 The complaint alleges breach of contract against Pamela in her capacity as trustee of Malcom’s estate and requests a declaratory judgment to settle the ongoing legal matter. — Mekishana Pierre, Entertainment Weekly, 22 July 2026 The ruling by judge trial referee Carl Schuman grants Harrison Amadasun’s request for a declaratory judgment and denies the Armstrong request for one. — Staff Report, Hartford Courant, 1 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for declaratory

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of declaratory was in the 15th century

Rhymes for declaratory

See All Rhymes for declaratory

Browse Nearby Words

declarator
declaratory
declare
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Declaratory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/declaratory. Accessed 6 Aug. 2026.

Copy Citation

Legal Definition

declaratory

adjective
de·​clar·​a·​to·​ry di-ˈklar-ə-ˌtōr-ē How to pronounce declaratory (audio)
: serving to declare, set forth, or explain: as
a
: declaring what is the existing law
b
: declaring a legal right or interpretation
declaratory relief
see also declaratory judgment at judgment sense 1a
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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