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.
Wilson Tamfuh, a public and international law professor at the University of Dschang in West Cameroon, said the country has institutions that can keep the government running when the president delegates responsibilities. — Nimi Princewill, CNN Money, 15 Aug. 2026 The Tarrant County District Attorney’s Office said 48-year-old Maria Narez, was taken into custody Saturday following a joint international law enforcement effort. — Greg Wehner, FOXNews.com, 12 Aug. 2026 Beijing has invested in building a cadre of lawyers who understand foreign and international law. — Mark Jia, Foreign Affairs, 7 Aug. 2026 But good luck to the administration in finding an expert on international law who agrees. — Steve Chapman, Chicago Tribune, 5 Aug. 2026 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

Rhymes for international law

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Browse Nearby Words

international language
international law
international legislation
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Cite this Entry

“International law.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/international%20law. Accessed 15 Aug. 2026.

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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

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about international law

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